Bhag-zo (English: Mask Maker), as he was widely known, was a 58-year-old monk of Chokha Monastery in Rinpung Dzong, under Shigatse Prefecture. He was arrested by officials of the Public Security Bureau in July 1996 on allegations of possessing audio cassettes containing information about the Panchen Lama reincarnation recognized by the Dalai Lama, as well as for recording and transcribing news broadcasts from the Voice of America.

At the time of his arrest, Bhag-zo La was responsible for the overall administration of the monastery. His current whereabouts remain unknown, and his family and relatives continue to express grave concern for his safety and well-being.