On 21 January 2025, the Human Resource Committee (HRC) of the Royal Bhutan Police Headquarters concluded its inquiry into the custodial death of detainee Biren Kumar Kafley. Following the investigation, disciplinary measures were imposed on three officers and five personnel from the Narcotics, Drugs, and Other Vices Division (NDOVD).
The division’s senior-most officer, a Superintendent of Police, received a severe warning. Although he was not directly involved, as he had volunteered for duties at the Global Peace Prayer Festival, the warning was issued to emphasize supervisory responsibility. The Officer Commanding was penalized with a six-month loss of seniority, resulting in delayed promotion and financial impact.
Among the five personnel, two drivers were disciplined for lapses related to the jail van, including failure to ensure safety checks and improper handover. Other personnel received reprimands or loss of seniority for neglecting escort duties and failing to follow detainee handling protocols, such as proper handcuffing procedures.