In a shocking development, Naresh Bhatt has been charged with concealing a dead body in connection with the mysterious disappearance of his wife, Mamta Kafle Bhatt. The announcement was made by Prince William County Commonwealth's Attorney, Amy Ashworth, on Thursday afternoon.

Mamta, a 28-year-old pediatric nurse and first-time mother, was last seen in late July. Concerned friends and family organized searches and distributed flyers in desperate attempts to find her. However, their efforts ultimately led to the arrest of Mamta's husband.

After weeks of investigation, Manassas Park police took Naresh Bhatt into custody on Thursday morning, following their discovery of additional evidence during a recent search. He was also separated from the couple's 1-year-old daughter, who had been in his care. The child is now in the custody of the Department of Social Services, in the care of a trusted caregiver approved by the authorities.

While Mamta has not been located, Ashworth mentioned that authorities are pursuing additional leads that could potentially result in more charges against Bhatt. He is currently being held without bond at the local jail and is set to be arraigned on Friday morning in Prince William Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.

The arrest has left the neighborhood in shock, as police continued to gather evidence from the Bhatt's residence on Heather Court. Some items, including rolled-up carpet sections, were removed from the property.

Members of the close-knit Nepalese community, friends, and concerned neighbors gathered outside the Manassas Park police station, reflecting their dedication to finding Mamta. Nadia Navarro, a close friend and former roommate of the missing woman, expressed her determination to keep Mamta's daughter out of foster care.

The circumstances surrounding Mamta Kafle Bhatt's disappearance remain unclear, leaving those who knew her deeply saddened by the tragedy. Community members and neighbors, like Ivy Freeman, voiced their hope for closure and the safe return of the missing mother.

As the investigation progresses, authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward. This developing news story will be updated with any significant developments in the case.