Kathmandu April 2, 2026: The Mount Everest fake rescue scam has come under investigation after Nepal police accused trekking guides of poisoning foreign climbers to force expensive helicopter rescues. Authorities said the scam affected thousands of climbers between 2022 and 2025.
According to investigators, more than 4,700 international climbers were impacted by the scheme, which generated nearly $20 million through fraudulent insurance rescue claims. Police have charged 32 people and arrested 11 individuals so far.
Officials said the scam involved trekking guides, rescue companies, helicopter operators, and hospital staff. The group allegedly created fake medical emergencies to trigger helicopter evacuations and then claimed large insurance payments.
Investigators said climbers were made sick using various methods. Some food was allegedly mixed with baking powder to cause stomach problems similar to altitude sickness. Others were given excessive medication and water to trigger symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and body aches.
Once climbers reported feeling unwell, they were advised to descend and take emergency helicopter rescues. Authorities said operators then used forged medical reports and fake flight documents to claim insurance money.
Police also said companies inflated costs by billing each passenger as if they had taken separate helicopter flights, even when multiple people were transported together. Hospitals allegedly created false admission and treatment reports to support the claims.
The Nepal Police Central Investigation Bureau said the fraud damaged Nepal’s international reputation and tourism industry. Officials said fake rescue scams had been reported before, including an investigation in 2018 that led to a government report and promises of reform.
Authorities said the scams continued due to weak punishment and lack of strict action. Insurance companies had previously warned they might stop covering trips to Nepal if the fraud continued.
The investigation is ongoing as Nepal begins the new spring climbing season, and authorities are continuing to monitor trekking companies and rescue operators.
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