Published by: World Tibet Network News, 96/03/07 20:00 GMT

Source: Human Rights Desk, Information Office

Dharamsala, INDIA

In our Human Rights Update of November 1995, we reported the arrest of five demonstrators from Dhamshung Dzong on September 9, 1995. We have recently received the names of the persons arrested, from a source in Tibet.

On September 9, 1996, five Tibetans from Dhamshung Dzong under Nagchu administration, demonstrated in the Barkhor area of Lhasa. The five demonstrators were 17-year old Pendor, 20-year old Samten, 22-year old Ringu, 25-year old Sogon and 28-year old Tashi Dhargye.

The demonstrators condemned China's interference in the Panchen Lama reincarnation issue and raised their voice against this interference in Tibet's religious matters. The five demonstrators were severely tortured while in police custody. One of the demonstrators had to be taken to "Men Zhen Bu" Dhongkher Hospital for treatment.

So far, their release has not been recorded.