Self-immolations prompt massive Tibetan demonstration in Malho

Around 2,000 Tibetans, led by monks of the local Tsang Monastery, were reported to have staged a protest rally in Songdzong town of Malho prefecture, Qinghai Province, on Mar 18, shouting for the Dalai Lama’s return from exile and freedom. The demonstration followed two successive days of self-immolations by two Tibetans in neighbouring Rebkong County, reported the exile Tibetan administration-run Tibet.net Mar 19 and others.

Chinese police and paramilitary armed police arrived after about an hour and detained 17 Tibetans for allegedly instigating the demonstration.

Other protesters then rushed to the police station, broke down its main gate, and demanded their release. The 17 were eventually released at around 5:00 PM, although fears remained that they will be rearrested.

The town and neighbouring areas were reported to be later under heavy security clampdown with the arrival of convoys of Chinese troops. Read More