Mount Everest guides allegedly ‘poisoned’ climbers as part of sinister $29 million scam
Mount Everest guides have been accused of poisoning tourists' food to trigger costly helicopter rescues as part of a $29 million insurance scam. The scam involved trekking company owners, helicopter operators, and hospital executives, with 32 individuals charged with organized crime and fraud charges.
Mount Everest guides allegedly poisoned tourists' food to trigger severe gastrointestinal distress. This led to costly emergency helicopter evacuations, with operators using forged documents to bill international travel insurers. The investigation began in January and has led to charges against 32 individuals. The groups allegedly obtained at least $19.69 million in insurance payouts. Prosecutors are seeking total fines of $11.3 million. The scam has highlighted concerns about corruption in Nepal's tourism industry.
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