953 detained over Lhasa riots

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Source: CCTV.com | 04-10-2008 13:29

Nearly 1,000 people have been detained after the March riots in Lhasa, capital of Tibet Autonomous Region. The chairman of the autonomous regional government says the violence also caused serious economic losses to the area.

Recent riots in Lhasa cost not just lives, but also huge economic losses.

953 people suspected of involvement in rioting, arson and looting were detained. Over 400 of those have been officially charged by police.

953 people suspected of involvement in rioting, arson and looting were detained. Over 400 of those have been officially charged by police. Authorities have also issued warrants for more than 90 other people.

The rioters caused economic losses totaling nearly 300 million yuan, or about 40 million US dollars.

Qiangba Puncog, chairman of Tibet Autonomous Regional Gov't, said, "Facts have proved that the riots were masterminded and plotted by some separatists. This has also been proved from the verdicts of suspects. From all the facts above, we could say that the recent riots were planned by the Dalai clique."

The rioters caused economic losses totaling nearly 300 million yuan, or about 40 million US dollars.

Public order and life in Lhasa have now returned to normal. The government has provided compensation to families who lost relatives in the riots, and carried out preferential policies on damaged businesses.

The chairman also vowed to make the Olympic torch relay in Tibet a smooth and successful one.

Qiangba Puncog said, "The recent riots cannot change the prosperity of Tibet. I am confident about that. We will not tolerate any sabotage on the torch relay in Tibet and on its journey to the top of Mount Qomolangma."

Qiangba Puncog revealed figures that show Tibet's economic growth rate has exceeded 12 percent for 7 consecutive years. He added that people in Tibet have been the real beneficiaries of China's reform and opening up.

Editor:Zhang Ning