KATHMANDU: Human remains found at the Mardi Himal base camp in Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality, Kaski, have been identified as those of 22-year-old Michael Liu. Liu had been missing since December 30, 2023. 

Kaski Police Chief Superintendent Mohan Kumar Thapa confirmed the identification through personal items at the site, such as clothing and a mobile phone. Liu's family in Sweden verified his identity based on these items. A police team has been dispatched to the location, but the area requires a three-hour walk from the nearest helicopter landing point, with a total travel time of around two days.

The remains, including bones, an iPhone, and some clothing, were discovered on Lam Hill within the base camp area. Inspector Bodhraj Regmi of the Ward Police Office Bagar led the search team. The Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality has sent local shepherd Gobinda Gautam and hotelier Chimnarayan Gautam to gather further information.

Liu had left Mardi High Camp for Base Camp early on December 30 but did not return to his hotel that evening. The Swedish Embassy in Kathmandu has been notified, and efforts are underway to inform Liu’s family.