The Chinese government has deployed security forces to Kardze County following pro-independence protests in the area which led to six arrests this month.

Government surveillance and monitoring of Tibetans in the region has reportedly increased after the most recent arrests of two protesters, Yonten and Lhagyal, outside Dza Wonpo village police station in Kardze on 21 November.

Flag by the Shaanxi Government Building – Xi’an

Lhagyal and Yonten were both immediately detained as they shouted for Tibetan independence in the village and threw leaflets into the air calling for an end to China’s rule in Tibet.

They have reportedly been beaten in police custody.

Their protest followed a similar demonstration in the village by four other Tibetans, Kusal, 20, and Tamey, Tsultrim and Soeta, all aged 18.

Government security officials are reportedly working in the area undercover, disguising themselves as traders, beggars and or citizens in local Tibetan clothes.

Communications about events in the region have also become more restricted with the increased security presence.