Gonpo Sonam, a 30-year-old monk from Tsawa, was a resident of Chamdo Monastery in Chamdo County. On 30 May 1996, Chinese authorities raided the monastery, confiscating images of the Dalai Lama and uncovering political leaflets calling for Tibetan independence.

Following the raid, Gonpo Sonam was arrested along with Zoepa and Jamyang Thinley and detained in Chamdo Prison. During detention, the monks were reportedly subjected to harsh interrogation and torture. While Jamyang Thinley later died from injuries sustained in custody, Gonpo Sonam remained imprisoned.