Nepalese Govt deports Pro-Tibet Everest Climber

Kathmandu, Apr 29 (UNI) An American Mount Everest Climber was deported by the Nepalese authorities after he was found guilty of carrying pro-tibet banner in Everest Base Camp.

American climber William Brant Holland was found guilty of carrying banner painted with 'free Tibet' slogan in his bag at the Everest base camp on April 21. A two-year ban was imposed on him, which prohibits him from climbing any mountain in Nepal, local newspaper said.

The Himalayan Times quoting Spokesperson for the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation said the Ministry had interrogated him when he arrived in Kathmandu last Thursday. Tourism police escorted Holland to the airport for deportation yesterday.

''The government has sought clarification from the Himalayan Guides Treks and Expeditions, which acquired the permission for Holland to climb,'' the newspaper said.

The government has stationed nearly 25 securitymen at the base camp to prevent any possible obstruction to the Olympic expedition.

UNI XC ARB DB1215