Bachen Gyalwam, also known as Ngawang Monlam, a former monk from Gyashoe Pelkar monastery and a well-respected village leader has been killed by the Chinese authorities in Driru County. Gyalwam was arrested along with several other Tibetans including Peka, Neymey, Droril and Tashi. It is believed he was killed so he could be replaced with a Chinese leader. Local villagers were forced to sign and give thumb impressions on an agreement to remain silent about the killing.