Gonpo Tseten, a 58-year-old Tibetan trader from Lhasa, was arrested in August 1996 for transporting 17 individuals toward the Nepal border in his truck, knowing they were attempting to cross illegally. He was formally detained in October 1996 and later charged with the crime of transporting persons across the border for profit.

During trial proceedings in 1997, the court relied on his confession, witness testimony, and material evidence to establish guilt. Despite his admission and request for leniency, the Chengguan District People’s Court found the offence serious.

On 27 December 1997, he was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment, and his vehicle was confiscated by the state.