Released Prisoners in Poor Health

Phayul[Tuesday, April 16, 2013 16:40]

DHARAMSHALA, April 16: The Chinese authorities have released several Tibetans who are reported to be in poor health after five years in jail. Two Tibetan monks Lobsang Ngodup, 34, and Soepa, 35, were released after completion of their five-year term in Chushul Prison on March 10. Lobsang Ngodup is undergoing medical treatment at a hospital in Siling, Amdo (Ch: Qinghai) while Soepa is said to be mentally unstable and is currently in Mange Monastery where Chinese security personnel is stationed and keeping a close watch on his movements. Soepa was detained twice after his release and was let out only after five Tibetans signed a bond pledging to take responsibility. He also needs to report to the local office. The Chinese authorities arrested the two monks on 10 March 2008 in Lhasa with thirteen other monks. On April 11, another Tibetan named Lhatsog was released a year prior to the completion of his six-year jail term. He was sentenced for taking part in protests against China’s occupation in 2008. However, the reason for his early release is not known. Several monks from nearby counties such as Matoe, Pema and Gade, who have gathered to welcome him, noticed a problem in his leg and had difficulty in walking. Earlier this month, two other Tibetans were released after serving long prison terms.  Jigme Gyatso, 52, a former monk was released after serving 17 years for demanding independence for Tibet and appeared 'very weak' when he returned to his home in Sangchu county in Eastern Tibet. He was released from Chushul Prison. Dawa Gyaltsen was released two years before completing his 18-year jail term because of what China called his "good behavior". Arbitrary arrests and ramdon imprisonment without due legal process are widespread in Tibet under China.