More victims tell their stories

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Source: CCTV.com | 03-28-2008 08:50

Over the past few days, several victims of the riots in Lhasa have spoken out about their recent ordeals. Residents of Tibet Autonomous Region continue to describe their experiences during the violence.

Director of Tibetan Medical Hospital, Chamdoi, is a witness to the recent riots. He said the rioters attacked the hospital and neighboring drug stores. The hospital had to close its gate to protect its patients and also provide a safe haven for the nearby vendors.

Director of Tibetan Medical Hospital, Chamdoi, is a witness to the recent riots. He said the rioters attacked the hospital and neighboring drug stores.

The Jokhang Temple and surrounding areas were one of those places worst hit by the violence.

Ngawang Qoizha, vice director of Jokhang Temple Management Committee, said, "The riots were instigated by a small fraction of the people. Their purpose was to damage ethnic solidarity and the country's territorial integrity. Tibet has been part of China for centuries."

Ngawang Qoizha, vice director of Jokhang Temple Management Committee, said, "The riots were instigated by a small fraction of the people.

Many stores attacked by the rioters are still being repaired. The Yichun garment store was broken into and then set ablaze. The fire killed 5 young girls.

Tang Qingyan, shop owner of Yichun Garment store, said, "When I rushed to those girls, they had already suffocated to death."

During the riots, many civilians turned to the Lhasa Salvage Center for help. By Thursday, the center was sheltering over 800 people.

Basang, Director of Lhasa Salvage Center, said, "Their basic needs, including food, housing, and medicine, are all covered by the government."

During the riots on March 14th, over 240 police officers were also injured, and one of them was killed, as they tried to protect the people from the violence.

Editor:Zhang Ning