Concerns Rise Over Detained Tibetan Monks in Machu County

The detention of two Tibetan monks in Machu County has raised significant concerns regarding their well-being and legal status. Samten Gyatso and Jamyang Samten were taken into custody over a year ago, with little information provided by Chinese authorities. Reports suggest their arrests may be linked to sensitive materials found on their phones, including images of the Tibetan national flag. The lack of transparency surrounding their situation has alarmed their families and supporters. Both monks had faced prior interrogations, with allegations against them ranging from displaying images of the Dalai Lama to creating an online platform for sharing information. As the situation unfolds, the community continues to seek clarity and justice for the detained monks.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 20, 2026, 20:25 IST

Detention of Tibetan Monks

In Machu County, two Tibetan monks, Samten Gyatso and Jamyang Samten, were taken into custody by Chinese authorities over a year ago. They remain detained, and there has been no official update regarding their condition or legal status. According to reports, the prolonged silence surrounding their detention has caused significant concern among their monastery, families, and supporters. One monk was reportedly apprehended directly from the monastery grounds, while the other was summoned by police under the pretext of retrieving a previously confiscated mobile phone, only to be arrested upon arrival. More than a year later, the exact dates of their arrests remain unclear, complicating efforts to verify details and obtain further information.

Lack of Transparency Heightens Concerns

The absence of transparency in this case has intensified worries among local sources. Although Chinese officials have not publicly clarified the allegations, it is believed that the arrests may be linked to sensitive material found on their phones, including images of the Tibetan national flag. Reports indicate that both monks had been subjected to repeated interrogations prior to their detention, often based on claims deemed 'baseless' by sources.

Surveillance and Previous Interrogations

Samten Gyatso, in particular, was closely monitored due to his WeChat display image featuring a picture of the Dalai Lama. Allegedly, this led Chinese authorities to conduct multiple searches of his residence, during which several books were confiscated, including 'The Buddha Has Come to the Snow Land.' Previously, he had been questioned about writing an essay in honor of the Dalai Lama's Nobel Peace Prize, but he was released after that interrogation, as reported.

Jamyang Samten's Online Activities

On the other hand, Jamyang Samten faces accusations of creating an online platform to share public information. He had previously been detained for distributing publications without government approval or an official ISBN number. Although he was initially released, he was later re-arrested under unclear circumstances, according to reports.