French serial killer Charles Sobhraj, portrayed in the Netflix series The Snake, is released from prison after nearly two decades. Nepal’s Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered the 78-year-old’s release on health grounds and his deportation.
Sobhraj killed dozens of people in Asia during the 1970s and has been linked to more than 20 murders. He has been in prison in Nepal since 2003 for the murder of two North American tourists.
Expulsion within 15 days
Sobhraj’s ruse was to first befriend his would-be victims – usually backpackers – and trust them before drugging, robbing and killing them. He used the passports of male victims to transit. He was nicknamed “The Snake” for his ability to take on other identities and thereby escape the clutches of justice.
According to prison sources, Sobhraj is expected to leave Kathmandu prison on Thursday. The Supreme Court ordered his expulsion within 15 days. (AFP/jmh)