Lamrimpa Ngawang Phuntsok
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Lamrimpa Ngawang Phuntsok (1922–1997) was a renowned Tibetan Buddhist master and teacher. He joined Drepung Monastery at the age of 22. Following the Chinese occupation of Tibet, he was arbitrarily arrested in 1959 without any known legal basis and detained until 1961. During his imprisonment, he was subjected to severe torture and was released in critically deteriorated health. Despite the lasting effects of his detention, he remained an influential Buddhist scholar and teacher until his death on 28 May 1997 at the age of 75.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 20, 2026
Asam
- Description of event
Asam, born in 1939, is a farmer from Markham, Tibet. He was arbitrarily arrested on 6 January 1961 for resisting the Chinese invasion of Tibet. He was denied due process and sentenced to life imprisonment without a fair trial. During his detention, he was subjected to torture and forced labour. After spending decades in custody, he was eventually released and escaped to India on 13 April 1988.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 20, 2026
Dega Trogawa
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Former Political Prisoner
- Description of event
Dega Trogawa (also known as Dega Troga), born around 1932, was a Tibetan from Shigatse who was first arrested by Chinese authorities in 1959 following the occupation of Tibet. He was imprisoned for 21 years under harsh conditions before being released in 1980. After his release, he became involved in a confrontation with police during the Panchen Lama's visit to Gyantse in 1982, when he attempted to protect civilians from a violent police crackdown, prompting him to flee into exile in India.
Having lived in exile since 1982, Dega returned to Tibet in October 1990 on a Chinese visa to visit his son. He was placed under constant surveillance from the moment he entered Tibet. On 12 December 1990, while returning to India, he was rearrested by Chinese police near Shigatse, who confiscated his travel documents, searched his belongings, and subjected him to interrogation before transferring him to detention. Reports indicated that he was subsequently held in Tsang Prison.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 20, 2026
Draglha
- Description of event
Draglha, a 37-year-old Tibetan from Tsangpa, was arrested by the Chinese authorities and subsequently sentenced to imprisonment in Meldro Gongkar Prison. The circumstances surrounding his arrest, the charges against him, and the length of his prison term remain unavailable. Owing to the limited information, further details regarding his detention and treatment in custody could not be verified.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 20, 2026
Ngawang Woeser(Jamyang)
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Former Political Prisoner
- Juvenile
- Religious
- Description of event
Ngawang Woeser (born 1970), a monk from Drepung Monastery and native of Dranang County, Lhoka Region, was actively involved in the Tibetan pro-independence movement. In 1988, he co-founded a clandestine ten-member organisation known as the Organisation of Ten, which disseminated speeches by the Dalai Lama, Tibetan human rights literature, and a proposed democratic constitution for Tibet. He also participated in the landmark peaceful demonstration by Drepung monks in Lhasa on 27 September 1987.
Following the 1987 protest, Ngawang Woeser was detained at Gutsa Detention Centre and Sangyip Prison for approximately four months, where he underwent repeated interrogations before being released on 21 January 1988. Despite being expelled from Drepung Monastery, he continued his political activities and remained a leading member of the Organisation of Ten.
On 16 April 1989, Chinese authorities rearrested Ngawang Woeser after uncovering the organisation's activities. He was held in Sangyip Prison for nearly one year and subjected to prolonged abusive interrogations. On 30 November 1989, the Lhasa Intermediate People's Court sentenced him to 17 years' imprisonment on charges including "counter-revolutionary activities," "incitement of pro-independence activities," and "leaking state secrets." He was transferred to Drapchi Prison on 15 January 1990, where he was reportedly forced to undergo "Reform Through Labour" and political re-education. Reports from former fellow prisoners indicated that his health significantly deteriorated during his imprisonment.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 20, 2026
Sog Shabdrung
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Sog Shabdrung, a Tibetan political prisoner, was imprisoned in Nagchu, Drachen District in 1969 during the Chinese government's campaign of political repression. He was reportedly held with approximately 5,000 other prisoners in a newly built prison, where 18 prisoners were confined in a one-square-metre cell without windows for up to four months. Prisoners were subsequently exposed to direct sunlight after prolonged confinement, causing severe eye damage; at least two elderly inmates reportedly became blind as a result.
Sog Shabdrung also reported that conditions in prisons in Sog District were similarly harsh, with around 2,000 prisoners receiving only cold water and being denied access to hot water. His testimony describes systematic overcrowding, inhumane detention conditions, and the mistreatment of Tibetan prisoners during this period.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 20, 2026
Tenzin
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Former Political Prisoner
- Description of event
Tenzin, a 55-year-old resident of the Drapchi neighbourhood in Lhasa, worked on the restoration of Sera Monastery's Tsangpa House after 1986. He made pilgrimage visits to India in 1985 and 1993. He was first arrested in 1988 and reportedly detained in Gutsa prison, Lhasa for one year. Following his return from India, he was arrested again on 12 July 1995. The reasons for his second arrest, the charges brought against him, his place of detention, and his subsequent whereabouts remain unknown based on the available information.
- Status of Detention
- Unknown
- Date added
- Jul 16, 2026
Tashi Lhamo
- Description of event
Tashi Lhamo, a Tibetan woman, was arrested on 1 October for her participation in a peaceful protest in Lhasa. While in detention, she reportedly undertook an 11-day hunger strike to protest her imprisonment and treatment. According to available reports, she was subsequently subjected to severe police beatings that resulted in the dislocation of multiple joints. At the time of reporting, she had not been released, and there were widespread fears among Tibetans in Lhasa that she had died in custody. No further information regarding her legal status or fate was available.
- Status of Detention
- Unknown
- Date added
- Jul 16, 2026
Pasang
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Pasang, a 31-year-old nun from a small nunnery in the Tagtse area, was arrested on 1 October 1989 for taking part in a peaceful demonstration in Lhasa. Along with five other nuns, she marched around Barkhor carrying the Tibetan national flag and distributed pro-independence leaflets. She was detained the same night and imprisoned in Lhasa Prison No. 1, where she received a seven-year prison sentence. While in custody, she reportedly endured overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, repeated torture—including beatings and electric shocks—and severe restrictions on family visits and religious practice. She was released on 10 July 1996 after serving her full sentence.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 16, 2026
Dawa Choedon
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Dawa Choedon, a 21-year-old nun from a small nunnery in the Tagtse area, was arrested on 1 October 1989 after participating in a peaceful demonstration in Lhasa. She marched around Barkhor carrying the Tibetan national flag and distributed leaflets advocating a free Tibet. She was detained the same night and transferred to Lhasa Prison No. 1, where she was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment. During detention, she was reportedly held in harsh conditions, subjected to beatings, electric shocks, prolonged interrogations, and inadequate food and sanitation. She was released on 10 July 1996 after completing her sentence.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 16, 2026
Lama Tenzin Choenge
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Lama Tenzin Choenge, a monk of Tagtse Monastery in Amdo, was arrested following a peaceful demonstration in Lhasa on 27 December 1993, during which monks marched through Barkhor calling for Tibetan freedom and carrying Tibetan national flags. Chinese authorities identified him through photographs taken at the protest and arrested him in his home village near Lhasa. He was reportedly sentenced to five years' imprisonment, while two fellow monks received 13-yearand eight-year prison terms. During detention, Tenzin Choenge was reportedly subjected to severe beatings, electric shocks, and other forms of torture, and was provided only inadequate food. Family visits were heavily restricted, with relatives permitted to deliver food and clothing only once a month.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 16, 2026
Tagtsang Lhamo
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Tagtsang Lhamo, a monk of Kirti Monastery in Ngaba (Aba), Amdo, was reportedly arrested around late 1989 or early 1990 after Chinese authorities accused him of putting up numerous political posters in Zoigê and Luchu counties. The posters called on Tibetans to unite in pursuit of their national aspirations and contained sharp criticism of senior Chinese leaders, including Deng Xiaoping and Li Peng. Chinese authorities characterized the posters as "separatist" propaganda and reportedly declared that the person responsible would face execution upon capture. Although available reports indicate that Tagtsang Lhamo was arrested in connection with the posters, no further information regarding his detention, trial, sentence, or subsequent fate has been made public.
- Status of Detention
- Unknown
- Date added
- Jul 16, 2026
Tamdin Sithar
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Former Political Prisoner
- Description of event
Tamdin Sithar, a 46-year-old Tibetan, was re-arrested on 26 August 1983 after authorities allegedly found him in possession of a statement by the Dalai Lama commemorating the 24th anniversary of the 1959 Tibetan Uprising. He was reportedly tried by the Lhasa Intermediate People's Court in 1984 and sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment. Although the exact charges remain unknown, they reportedly included allegations of counter-revolutionary activities or espionage. He was detained in Drapchi Prison, Lhasa, and was adopted by Amnesty International as a prisoner of conscience.
Tamdin had previously been detained without trial from 1971 to 1975 for his alleged involvement in a pro-independence youth group. Following his release, he was placed under supervision in a labour brigade near Lhasa before being re-arrested in 1983.
- Date added
- Jul 15, 2026
Tamdin Jamyang
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Tamdin Jamyang, a 22-year-old monk from Tashi Gomang Monastery in Amdo, participated in a peaceful protest in Lhasa on 2 February 1990. Fearing arrest and persecution by the Chinese authorities following the demonstration, he fled to his hometown on 10 May 1990 before escaping to exile in India. His case reflects the risks faced by Tibetan monks for participating in peaceful political expression.
- Status of Detention
- Escaped
- Date added
- Jul 15, 2026
Tenzin Tsedup
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Former Political Prisoner
- Juvenile
- Religious
- Description of event
Tenzin Tsedup, a 16-year-old former monk from Taktse Phagmo Monastery, Taktse County, was arrested on 18 August 1993 after participating in a peaceful pro-independence demonstration during the Drepung Shoton Festival in Norbulingka, Lhasa, alongside Tseten Ngodup (19) and Pasang (23). The three displayed the Tibetan national flag, distributed independence leaflets, and shouted slogans supporting Tibetan independence and the Dalai Lama. They were detained by the Public Security Bureau (PSB) and taken to Gutsa Detention Centre, where Tenzin was reportedly beaten unconscious, kicked in the chest, and subjected to interrogation. On 14 September 1993, he was sentenced to one year of imprisonment, while his co-defendants received longer sentences. He was released on 18 August 1994 but was prohibited from rejoining any monastery.
In 1998, he was arrested during an attempted escape to India and detained for approximately one month in Shigatse Detention Centre before being released. He successfully escaped to India in August 1998.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 15, 2026
Ven. Thupten Tsering
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Former Political Prisoner
- Religious
- Description of event
Ven. Thupten Tsering, a 61-year-old Tibetan monk from Nagchu, was arrested in the third week of November 1987 after Public Security Bureau officers reportedly took him from his home at 2:00 a.m. and transferred him to Gutsa Prison, Lhasa. He was subsequently transferred to Drapchi prison, No visitors were reportedly allowed to see him after his detention.
This was his third imprisonment. He had previously been imprisoned from 1959 to 1961, and was arrested again in 1965in Gyantse while attempting to flee to India, for which he remained imprisoned until 1970. After his release, he was assigned to a state-controlled Work Group, where his movement was reportedly restricted and monitored.
The stated reason for his 1987 arrest was his association with foreigners, including contact with his brother, Geyshe Sherab Gyatso (Lobsang Sherab) of the Tushita Dharma Center in Italy, and an Italian visitor, Dr. Dallari Stefano, whom he had accompanied and hosted during their visit to Tibet.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 15, 2026
Thubten Kelsang Thalutsogentsang
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Former Political Prisoner
- Religious
- Description of event
Thubten Kelsang Thalutsogentsang, a 43-year-old former Tibetan monk and horse-cart driver, was first detained following the 1959 Tibetan uprising and reportedly imprisoned in Sangyib Prison, Lhasa, where he was assigned to a labour unit and remained under official surveillance after his release. On 3 December 1981, he was re-arrested in Lhasa for allegedly shouting pro-independence slogans in support of Tibetan independence during a public gathering. He was reportedly sentenced to three years' imprisonment. No reliable information is available regarding his treatment, release, or current whereabouts following his arrest.
- Status of Detention
- Unknown
- Date added
- Jul 15, 2026
Tsetan Namgyal
- Description of event
Tsetan Namgyal, a farmer from Shigatse County, was arrested on 11 March 1959 for participating in the Tibetan resistance against the invading Chinese forces during the Tibetan People's Uprising. While in custody, he was subjected to torture and forced labour. He was imprisoned for 12 years before his release and later escaped to India in 1983.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 14, 2026
Thangpe Phuntsok Namgyal
- Description of event
Thangpe Phuntsok Namgyal, born in 1934 and a resident of Lhasa, served as a civil servant in the former Tibetan Government. He was arrested on 11 March 1959 for participating in the Tibetan People's Uprising against the invading Chinese forces. Following his arrest, he was sentenced to 20 years' imprisonment. After completing his sentence, he eventually reached India in January 1986.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 14, 2026
Tendar
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Tendar, a 30-year-old monk from Sera Monastery, was arrested in March 2001 for participating in a pro-independence demonstration. Widely respected within the monastery for his mastery of Buddhist philosophy, he was detained in connection with his peaceful political expression. No further information regarding his detention, trial, sentence, or subsequent whereabouts has been documented.
- Date added
- Jul 14, 2026
Tenpa Wangdrak
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Tenpa Wangdrak (born 1941), also known as Sonam, was a monk at Gaden Monastery who was arrested in March 1988 after participating in a peaceful demonstration advocating Tibetan independence and protesting the imprisonment of a fellow monk. Following his arrest, he was subjected to repeated interrogations by Chinese authorities regarding his political beliefs, associations, and activities before being formally charged.
On 17 December 1988, Tenpa was sentenced to 14 years' imprisonment on allegations of leading the protest and opposing Chinese rule in Tibet. Although he was informed of his right to appeal, he declined due to concerns that it would be ineffective or result in a harsher sentence.
During his imprisonment, Tenpa was transferred to Drapchi Prison, where he was assigned agricultural labor. In March 1991, after attempting to submit a petition to a visiting prison delegation, he was severely beaten and placed in solitary confinement before later being released from isolation. Reports also indicated that his health deteriorated in custody, including significant loss of eyesight, highlighting concerns over his treatment and prison conditions.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 14, 2026
Ngawang Jampa
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Ngawang Jampa, a 20-year-old nun from Chubsang Nunnery, originally from Meldro Gongkar County, was arrested on 2 September 1989 for participating in the mass pro-Tibetan demonstration in Lhasa. Following her arrest, she was sentenced to two years' imprisonment and detained at Gutsa Detention Centre (Gutsa Prison). Her imprisonment was linked solely to her peaceful participation in the demonstration.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 14, 2026
Bhutuk
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Bhutuk (b. 1974), a former monk of Drongtso Monastery from Drambu Township, Gyantse County, Shigatse, was arrested in May 1996 together with fellow monk Ngodup Gyaltsen for producing and distributing pro-independence leaflets and cassette recordings of speeches by the Dalai Lama. The two were initially detained at Gyantse Detention Centre for three months before being transferred to Shigatse Nyari Detention Centre. In late November 1996, the Shigatse Intermediate People's Court convicted them of "counter-revolutionary propaganda" and sentenced each to five years' imprisonment and two years' deprivation of political rights. Following sentencing, they were held for 15 days in Shigatse Detention Centre before being transferred to Drapchi Prison in December 1996. Bhutuk was 22 years old at the time of his arrest and sentencing.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 13, 2026
Rinzin Kunsang
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Rinzin Kunsang (b. 1965), a Buddhist nun from Jelsam Village, Nyêmo County, joined Shugseb Nunnery at the age of 19. She was arrested on 17 May 1988 after participating in a peaceful demonstration in Lhasa, where she and other nuns and monks shouted pro-Tibetan slogans, including "Long Live His Holiness the Dalai Lama" and "Chinese Leave Tibet," and distributed political pamphlets. She was detained in Gutsa Detention Centre for two months without trial or legal representation and was never formally sentenced. Released on 15 July 1988, she later stated that her release was secured through the intervention of the 10th Panchen Lama. During detention, she was held in harsh conditions, including solitary confinement, deprivation of bedding and drinking water, and inadequate sanitation.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 13, 2026
Jampel Jangchup
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Jampel Jangchup (b. 1967), a former monk of Drepung Monastery from Toelung Dechen County, was a prominent Tibetan political activist involved in the 1987 pro-independence demonstrations and the clandestine production and distribution of pro-independence literature. He was first detained on 28 September 1987 and again on 16 April 1989. Following a mass sentencing in Lhasa on 30 November 1989, he was convicted on charges including "espionage" and organising a "counter-revolutionary group." He was sentenced to 19 years' imprisonment with five years' deprivation of political rights and transferred to Drapchi Prison on 15 January 1990. While in custody, he was reportedly subjected to severe beatings, prolonged isolation, and other forms of ill-treatment, including after participating in a prison protest in April 1991. Former inmates reported that he developed serious kidney problems and deteriorating eyesight as a result of his imprisonment.
- Date added
- Jul 13, 2026
Pasang Tsering
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Pasang Tsering, a 27-year-old monk from Nechung Monastery, previously attempted to flee to India but was apprehended by Chinese authorities. He was arrested, later released, and subsequently barred from returning to his monastery. On 5 March 1988, he participated in a peaceful demonstration in Lhasa and was arrested again in connection with his involvement in the protest. His detention appears to have been linked to the peaceful exercise of his rights to freedom of expression and assembly.
- Date added
- Jul 2, 2026
Passang Dhondup
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Juvenile
- Description of event
Passang Dhondup was a Tibetan student from Lhasa. He was 12 years old when he participated in the 1987 pro-independence demonstrations in Lhasa. During the protest near Barkhor Police Station, he was shot in the stomach by security forces, sustaining life-threatening injuries that required surgery, blood transfusions, and five months of hospitalization. After his discharge, he was arrested by Chinese police, interrogated about other demonstrators, and subjected to torture, including beatings, kicks, slaps, and electric cattle prods. He was held in solitary confinement for seven days, denied family visits and adequate food, and released only after his parents reportedly paid 1,000 yuan. He continued to suffer from his injuries, including chronic stomach pain, before fleeing Tibet and arriving in India on 30 November 1993, where he provided testimony documenting the abuses he endured.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Early release
- Date added
- Jul 2, 2026
Tenzin Jigme
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Juvenile
- Description of event
Tenzin Jigme, an 11-year-old student at Sharchok School in Lhasa, was arrested on 25 May 1993 for participating in a peaceful demonstration held on 24 May 1993. His detention was reportedly linked to his involvement in the protest despite his young age. He later escaped from custody.
- Status of Detention
- Escaped
- Date added
- Jul 2, 2026
Tsering Dhondup
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Tsering Dhondup was a 28-year-old Tibetan monk from the Nechung Institute of Buddhist Studies in Lhasa. He was arrested at his college by Chinese security officials and soldiers on the 27th day of the first month of the Tibetan calendar without being informed of the reasons for his arrest. During the arrest, he was shackled, beaten, and initially detained at Shing Chen Tru before being transferred to Gutsa Prison. He was later tried in secret by the People's Court on 16 April and charged with murder, while his family was denied access to both the trial and subsequent visits. During interrogation, he was reportedly subjected to severe torture, including being suspended upside down from the ceiling and beaten with electric batons to force him to implicate others. He was held in harsh conditions, provided with inadequate food, denied family visits for over nine months, and suffered deteriorating health while in detention.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 2, 2026
Tenzin Choedrak
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Tenzin Choedrak (b. 1975) was a 20-year-old Tibetan Buddhist monk from Khangmar Monastery when he was arrested on 15 April 1995 alongside fellow monks Sangye Tenphel (b. 1985), Lobsang Choephel (b. 1984), Lobsang Gelek, and another monk for participating in a peaceful demonstration in the Barkhor area of Lhasa. He was sentenced to five years' imprisonment and detained in Drapchi Prison. His associates received prison terms ranging from three to four years, while fellow monk Sangye Tenphel died in custody on 6 May 1996 after reportedly being subjected to severe torture. Tenzin Choedrak and Lobsang Gelek continued serving their sentences in Drapchi Prison, where they reportedly endured harsh treatment and abuse.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 2, 2026
Rigzin (Rinzin) Choenyi
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Rigzin (Rinzin) Choenyi was a 19-year-old Tibetan Buddhist nun from Shungseb Nunnery in Lhasa when she was arrested on 22 September 1989 for participating in a peaceful demonstration at the Barkor pilgrimage circuit with five other nuns. The group called for Tibetan independence by chanting pro-independence slogans during the period of martial law in Lhasa. In October 1989, she was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment for allegedly violating martial law regulations and was detained in Drapchi Prison. During her imprisonment, she shared a cell with prominent political prisoners Phuntsok Nyidron and Ngawang Sangdrol. She was released in September 1995 and later reached Dharamsala, India, where she provided detailed testimony documenting torture, ill-treatment, and prison conditions experienced by Tibetan political prisoners. Amnesty International recognized her as a prisoner of conscience, imprisoned solely for the peaceful expression of her political beliefs.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 2, 2026
Tsewang Tashi
- Description of event
Tsewang Tashi, a 64-year-old man from Sakya District, Tibet, joined the Tibetan resistance following the entry of Chinese forces into Tibet in 1949. He fought against the Chinese military in Kamtsok Tsowa, Derge, and on several other fronts resisting Chinese control over Tibet. He was arrested in 1960 during a resistance campaign in Tredo and taken to Panipat Tse Zong, where he reportedly witnessed the killing of thousands of Tibetan prisoners of war. He was later transferred to Powo Tramo Prison, where he was subjected to forced labour. After approximately 21 years of imprisonment, he was released in 1981 and subsequently escaped to India.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 2, 2026
Tsering Penpa
- Description of event
Tsering Penpa, a 20-year-old carpenter from Phenpo Lhundup County, was arrested on 1 June 1989 at his home in the Ramoche area of Lhasa following a confrontation with members of the Wu Jing (People's Armed Police). He was initially detained at Dekyi Fa Tu Su Police Station before being transferred to a detention centre near Banak Shol and later held at Gutsa Prison. During detention, he was repeatedly interrogated and subjected to severe torture, including beatings with leather belts and fists, being forced to stand while officers assaulted him, having his arms stretched while being punched, and having his neck crushed between iron chairs. He was denied food after his arrest and pressured to identify other Tibetans involved in the incident. His testimony documents arbitrary arrest, torture, and ill-treatment of Tibetan detainees following the 1989 Lhasa crackdown.
- Status of Detention
- Escaped
- Date added
- Jul 1, 2026
Thupten
- Description of event
Thupten, a businesswoman from Gonjo County, Chamdo Region, witnessed the implementation of China's birth control policy in Nyemo County in May 1997. She reported that approximately 300 Tibetan women were forcibly sterilised, while women who were around three months pregnant were allegedly subjected to forced abortions. Her testimony also described strict family planning measures, including compulsory birth permits, limits on the number and spacing of children, public denunciations, and fines imposed on couples who violated the policy, highlighting widespread coercive reproductive rights abuses against Tibetans.
- Date added
- Jul 1, 2026
Richen Samdup
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Richen Samdup was arrested at his home in Minyak Rangakha in October 1959 and detained at Ngachen Monastery, which had been converted into a prison in Dhartsedo. After one year, he was transferred to Shing Du Dhu Prison in 1961 and, in 1962, to the Ghatak agricultural labour camp, where he remained imprisoned for 13 years. During his detention, he was subjected to forced labour, including farming, cattle herding, logging, carpentry, blacksmithing, and political "re-education" sessions. His testimony describes the widespread use of Tibetan political prisoners in hard labour camps under the policy of "reform through labour" following the Chinese occupation of Tibet.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 1, 2026
Tenzin Norbu
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Tenzin Norbu, born in 1969, was a monk at Gaden Monastery when he was arrested on 18 July 1995 in Lhasa alongside fellow monk Chokdrup for participating in a peaceful demonstration. Although they chanted pro-independence slogans, they did not display the Tibetan national flag or political posters. Tenzin was sentenced to six years' imprisonment and incarcerated in Drapchi Prison. Reports indicate that he suffered severe torture in custody, leaving him in poor health after his transfer to the prison.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 1, 2026
Ngari Tulku Thupten Lobsang
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Ngari Tulku Thupten Lobsang, a respected religious leader at Sera Monastery, was arrested on 18 March 1990 after refusing to comply with directives issued by Chinese government work teams during the Tibet Autonomous Region Political Conference. He reportedly rejected demands to denounce His Holiness the Dalai Lama and endorse state-led assimilation policies. His detention appears to have been linked to the peaceful exercise of his religious beliefs and freedom of expression.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jul 1, 2026
Thupten Choepel
- Description of event
Thupten Choepel, a 24-year-old Tibetan trader from Hola Village, Markham County, participated in the peaceful demonstrations in Lhasa on 1 October 1987. During the unrest, he attempted to rescue monks trapped inside a burning police station but was shot twice by Chinese police, sustaining serious gunshot wounds to his buttock and lower back. He witnessed security forces firing at people attempting to escape, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries.
After being denied treatment at one hospital, he was admitted to Menthang Hospital, where he observed numerous civilians, including women, children, and monks, suffering from gunshot wounds. Fearing arrest after his recovery, he briefly returned to his home village before going back to Lhasa. He was later arrested and detained by Nagchuka police for possessing and distributing approximately 300 photographs of the Dalai Lama, reflecting restrictions on expressions of Tibetan identity and religious devotion.
- Date added
- Jul 1, 2026
Bhu Chungla
- Description of event
Bhu Chungla, a 22-year-old Tibetan male, was arrested on 8 March 1989 on charges of "counter-revolutionary propaganda and incitement" following the mass protests in Tibet. He was sentenced by a People's Court to four years' imprisonment, commencing on the date of his arrest, and an additional one year of deprivation of political rights. After completing his sentence, he was released on 8 March 1993, as confirmed by the official Certificate of Release issued by the Public Security Bureau.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jun 30, 2026
Bhu Anu
- Description of event
Bhu Anu, aged 22, was detained in Gutsa Prison in December 1990. During his detention, he was reportedly subjected to severe torture and repeated interrogation by the authorities.
- Date added
- Jun 30, 2026
Penpa Tsering
- Description of event
Taken away from his shop by the authorities. No further details found.
- Status of Detention
- Unknown
- Date added
- Jun 30, 2026
Wangdu
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Wangdu, a 22-year-old resident of Taktse County, was arrested on 8 March 1989 for allegedly participating in the mass demonstrations held in Lhasa between 5 and 7 March 1989. Following his arrest, he was sentenced to three years' imprisonment and was detained in Sangyip Prison.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jun 30, 2026
O-Chok
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
O-Chok, born in 1967, was a monk at Gaden Choekhorling Monastery and a native of Phenpo Lhundrup County. He was arrested on 12 May 1994, at the age of 27, and sentenced to six years' imprisonment in Drapchi Prison. His detention was reportedly linked to political activities, reflecting the continued restrictions on religious and political expression in Tibet.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jun 30, 2026
Orgyan Tashi
- Description of event
Orgyan Tashi, born in 1942, is a semi-nomadic resident of Pashoe County. On 28 August 1995, he was arrested under circumstances that remain unclear. Reports suggest that his detention may have been linked either to the distribution of pro-independence posters or to an alleged attempt to use explosives on pillars in Lhasa. Prior to his arrest, he had travelled to India on two occasions.
At the time of the report, his wife was residing in Lhasa, while their two children were pursuing their education in India. Following his conviction, Orgyan Tashi was sentenced to nine years of imprisonment and was serving his sentence at Drapchi Prison.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jun 30, 2026
Wotse
- Description of event
Wotse (b. 1943), a businessman from Ngaba County, was arrested alongside the Kirti monk Tenzin on 23 May 1998 after returning from India, where he attended Kalachakra initiations and collected information on the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, including speeches by the Dalai Lama. He shared the materials with Tenzin, who copied and distributed them. Both were sentenced to five years' imprisonment for disseminating politically sensitive information and criticizing the Chinese government, and were incarcerated in Maowan Prison.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jun 30, 2026
Wangdu
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Wangdu (born in 1967) was a Buddhist monk from Taktse Dechen Sangak Monastery. He was arrested in December 1994 for participating in a peaceful demonstration in Lhasa, Tibet. Following his arrest, he was convicted and sentenced to four years of imprisonment. While serving his sentence, Wangdu allegedly took part in the Drapchi Prison Protest in May 1998, which resulted in an additional four-year prison term. Consequently, his total sentence was extended to eight years of imprisonment.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jun 30, 2026
Woeser(Tashi Rabten)
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Woeser(Tashi Rabten) was a 24 years old monk from Sera monastery. Details regarding his arrest and sentenced are not found.
- Date added
- Jun 23, 2026
Thupten Thabkai
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Thupten Thabkai, a monk from Tsamphung Monastery in Tengchen County, Chamdo Prefecture, was arrested by Chinese authorities following a bomb explosion at a government-operated gold mining site in Trekdo Township on 18 July 2001. He was among 16 monks and laypersons detained on suspicion of involvement in the incident. Reports indicate that detainees were subjected to severe torture and ill-treatment during interrogation. On 13 November 2001, the Chamdo Intermediate People's Court sentenced Thupten Thabkai to life imprisonment and imposed a fine of 19,000 yuan. His conviction followed proceedings that raised serious concerns regarding due process and the treatment of detainees in custody.
- Date added
- Jun 15, 2026
Topgyal
- Description of event
Topgyal(Tyugi) from Amdo was arrested in May, 2001 on charges of espionage and separatism. he was detained at Gutsa prison.
- Date added
- Jun 15, 2026
Tsondru Wangmo
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Tsondru Wangmo (born 1958), a nun from Theckchen Nunnery, was arrested on 25 November 1994 for participating in the distribution of political posters in Nyemo County. She was held in Nyemo and Gutsa detention centres before being sentenced to seven years' imprisonment in April 1995. She was subsequently transferred to Drapchi Prison, where she remained incarcerated.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jun 12, 2026
Sangye Choedon
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Sangye Choedon (born 1975), a nun from Theckchen Nunnery, was arrested on 25 November 1994 for involvement in a poster campaign advocating Tibetan independence. After detention in Nyemo and Gutsa detention centres, she was sentenced to four years' imprisonment in April 1995 and transferred to Drapchi Prison. She was released upon completion of her sentence.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jun 12, 2026
Dorje Youdron
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Dorje Youdron (born 1970), a nun from Theckchen Nunnery, was arrested on 12 November 1994 for distributing political posters in Nyemo County. She was detained in Nyemo and Gutsa detention centres before being sentenced to five years' imprisonment in April 1995. She was later transferred to Drapchi Prison and released after completing her sentence.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jun 12, 2026
Pema Tsomo
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Pema Tsomo (born 1966), a nun from Theckchen Nunnery, was arrested on 16 November 1994 for pasting pro-independence posters in Nyemo County. During detention, she was transferred between several prisons in and around Lhasa, subjected to severe torture, and held in solitary confinement for two months. In April 1995, she was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment and transferred to Drapchi Prison.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jun 12, 2026
Thupten Choenchoe
- Description of event
Thupten Choenchoe, a 66-year-old resident of Rego Village, Kardze County, was arrested on 26 October 1999 for participating in and leading a peaceful public demonstration in Kardze. The protest was organized to demand the release of respected religious teacher Geshe Sonam Phuntsok following his detention by Chinese authorities. Thupten Choenchoe was subsequently sentenced to six years' imprisonment in Kardze Prison for his involvement in the protest.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jun 12, 2026
Ngawang Jungney
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Former Political Prisoner
- Description of event
Ngawang Jungney (born 1967), a Tibetan from Nyadrung Village in Damshung County, was arrested on 13 January 1994 while studying at Tibet University and accused of spying for the Tibetan Government-in-Exile. He was detained for six months and 26 days in Seitru Detention Centre, where he was reportedly subjected to torture before being released due to a lack of evidence. Two months later, he was re-arrested, held under strict security conditions, and subjected to further ill-treatment. He was subsequently sentenced to nine years’ imprisonment and transferred to Powo Tramo Prison. Reports indicated that he suffered severe psychological harm as a result of torture and harsh prison conditions.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jun 9, 2026
Thupten Tsondue
- Description of event
Thupten Tsondue, also known as Tinchung, was born in 1935 in Shigatse and served as a Level Seven Junior Accountant in the Tibetan government. He was arrested on 18 March 1959 for participating in the Tibetan resistance against the Chinese invasion. Following his arrest, he was reportedly shackled, subjected to torture, and repeatedly interrogated. He was later sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment for his involvement in the resistance movement.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jun 9, 2026
Thupten Gyaltsen
- Description of event
Thupten Gyaltsen, a Tibetan student from Meldro Gongkar County, was arrested on 26 March 1988 for participating in a pro-independence demonstration in Lhasa. He was detained in Gutsa Prison, where he was subjected to repeated interrogations, severe torture, and inhumane detention conditions. After nine months in custody, he was sentenced to one and a half years' imprisonment and transferred to Drapchi Prison, where he was forced to perform hard labour. Having already served nine months in detention, he was released on 27 September 1989 after enduring prolonged physical abuse and imprisonment for his political activities.
- Date added
- Jun 9, 2026
Tenzin Dorjee
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Tenzin Dorjee, a 25-year-old monk from Samye Monastery in Lhoka Drachi, served as a disciplinary leader and instructor within the monastery. During the Chinese government's "patriotic re-education" campaign launched at Samye Monastery in July–August 1996, he reportedly opposed efforts to compel monks to denounce the Dalai Lama and endorse official political ideology.
After resisting the campaign and objecting to politically charged questionnaires distributed to monks, Tenzin Dorjee disappeared in September 1996. Despite extensive efforts by fellow monks and his family to locate him, his whereabouts remained unknown. It was widely suspected that he had been targeted by Chinese authorities because of his refusal to comply with the re-education campaign and his outspoken opposition to government policies.
- Status of Detention
- Enforced Disappearance
- Date added
- Jun 2, 2026
Tenzin
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Religious
- Description of event
Tenzin (born 1975) was a monk of Kirti Monastery and a teacher at Ngaba County Tibetan Middle School. In January 1999, at the age of 24, he was arrested by the Ngaba County Public Security Bureau (PSB) for displaying a photograph of the Dalai Lama and possessing a Tibetan national flag in his classroom.
Following his arrest, Tenzin was held in the Ngaba County Detention Centre for three months. He was subsequently sentenced to five years' imprisonment on political charges and transferred to Maowan Prison to serve his sentence. His case reflects the criminalisation of peaceful expressions of Tibetan cultural and political identity.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Upon completion of sentence
- Date added
- Jun 2, 2026
Tenzin Jigme
- Vulnerable Group at Detention
- Juvenile
- Description of event
Tenzin Jigme was an 11-year-old student from Nanashoe, Lhasa, studying in Class II at Sharchok School. On 24 May 1993, he witnessed and briefly joined a peaceful demonstration in Lhasa, where Tibetans marched carrying Tibetan national flags and calling for freedom. He observed Chinese police using force against demonstrators, including beatings and tear gas, and witnessed numerous Tibetans being arrested.
The following day, 25 May 1993, police identified Tenzin from a photograph and took him into custody. He was detained for several hours, forced to kneel on a concrete floor, interrogated, and beaten. During his detention, he reportedly witnessed hundreds of Tibetan monks and nuns bound with ropes and chains inside the police station. He was released the same day after being warned that he would face life imprisonment if he participated in similar activities again. As one of the youngest Tibetans detained in connection with the May 1993 demonstrations, the experience left a lasting impact on him.
- Status of Detention
- Released: Early release
- Date added
- Jun 2, 2026