Tibet anniversary marked with teen self-immolation/ENG

2012. március 12./Free Tibet/TibetPress

http://www.freetibet.org/newsmedia/tibet-anniversary-marked-teen-self-immolation

An 18-year-old named Gepey self-immolated and died in Ngaba Town on Saturday.

The monk from Kirti Monastery set himself on fire at around 5pm (local time) on the anniversary of the 1959 Tibetan Uprising. He is the 26th Tibetan to self-immolate in the last 12 months.

Support for Tibet
At the same time, thousands of Tibetans, and Tibet supporters, around the world participated in events in solidarity with the people of Tibet.

The self-immolation took place behind the Ngaba County Military camp. He is the third Tibetan in a row to self-immolate near government authority buildings; following Dorjee and Rinchen.

Funeral security
Chinese authorities refused to allow the traditional funeral rites to take place, for fear that it would give Tibetans a chance to gather and provide an opportunity for further protest against China’s repression.

The family was ordered to have the death ceremony immediately and his body was cremated the same evening. Only five monks were allowed to attend the cremation and the cemetery was surrounded by security officers.

Increased military presence
More military, paramilitary and police personnel have been deployed in Ngaba Town since Saturday.

Local businesses and restaurants are closed today in a mark of solidarity with Gepey’s courageous act.