Kathmandu, Oct. 17 -- An audio recording and a statement attributed to GB Rai, a fugitive accused of cooperatives fraud and organised crime, have surfaced publicly, with Rai purportedly expressing a willingness to return to Nepal and pledging to repay depositors.

The digital news outlet Setopati published the audio on Saturday. In the recording, a man identified as Rai addresses shareholders, depositors, borrowers and the government, discussing cooperative institutions, companies and related matters. Police said they have yet to authenticate the recording and are preparing to examine its source and authenticity.

In the statement attributed to him, Rai says he had expected assistance and cooperation from the government at the time but th...