Two Nepali youths who travelled to Lapchi, a remote settlement bordering China, have been taken into custody by Chinese security forces after they allegedly crossed the border and flew a drone.

According to sources, Manoj Prajapati of Kathmandu and Sudip Thapa Magar of Bhaktapur had reached Lapchi on June 16. While in the area, they reportedly crossed into Chinese territory and operated a drone, prompting intervention by Chinese security personnel.

The two were detained on June 26 and are currently being held in Nyalam County, according to sources.

Lapchi, which lies along the Nepal–China border in Dolakha district, has seen a steady rise in visitors in recent times after the construction of hydropower-related roads improved access to the remote region.

Authorities say increased movement in the border area has led China to step up surveillance and security monitoring along the frontier.