Norbu Damdrul dies from injuries/ENG

2012. január 10./Tibet Society/TibetPress

[10 January 2012] Norbu Damdrul, who self-immolated on 15 October 2011, has succumbed to his injuries, dying in a military hospital on 5 January.

Norbu Damdrul set himself on fire on the main street in protest against the Chinese government's continued crackdown in Tibet. During his protest he shouted “We need freedom and independence for Tibet” and called for the return of the Dalai Lama to Tibet.

The 19-year old former Kirti monk was taken away by police following his protest, with witnesses reporting that police officers kicked Norbu once the flames were extinguished. Witnesses said that though badly burned Norbu was still alive. His condition and whereabouts remained unknown until reports were received of his death. According to Tibetan exile sources Norbu died in a Chinese military hospital in Barkham county, Ngaba, Sichuan province.

Since March 2011, 15 Tibetans have self-immolated in Tibet in protest against China's brutal regime, 11 of whom are now known to have died. All three Tibetans who have protested so far in 2012 have died, with latest reports indicating both Tenyi and Tsultrim died following their protest on 6 January. Sonam Wangyal died at the scene of his protest on 8 January.