China Reportedly Fires on Protesters in Tibet

At least 60 wounded

Tibetan activists say Chinese police have opened fire in a confrontation with protesters in China's Tibetan Autonomous Region, leaving 60 people wounded.

Local and exiled Tibetan sources told VOA's sister network Radio Free Asia that the incident happened on Sunday in the town of Biru in Naqu county. They said many of the wounded were shot in the hands and legs as the police fired into a crowd demanding the release of a protest leader.

Chinese police detained the activist, Dorje Draktsel, last week for protesting official orders for Tibetans to fly the Chinese flag on their homes to mark China's October 1st national day.

RFA quoted sources as saying some people hurt in Sunday's incident were knocked unconscious when police fired tear gas, while many of the wounded did not receive prompt medical care from authorities.