
04/07/2025
: Former Dorji Lopen Yonten Gyeltshen Found Murdered in Tshamkhang; Suspect with Criminal Record Apprehended
In a shocking and deeply saddening incident, the former Dorji Lopen Yonten Gyeltshen was found murdered yesterday in his Tshamkhang (meditation retreat) located in Talo.
The 89-year-old former monastic leader was a revered figure in Bhutan’s religious community. He served as the Drabi Lopen beginning in 1989 for eight years, and in 1999, he was appointed as the Dorji Lopen, one of the highest positions in the Zhung Dratshang (Central Monastic Body), for a term of three years.
Authorities have confirmed the arrest of a suspect earlier today in Paro. The individual is an ex-monk with a prior criminal record of larceny**, and has previously served time in prison. Investigations are currently underway, and law enforcement has yet to release further details regarding the motive behind the killing.
The spiritual community and the nation at large are mourning the loss of a respected Buddhist master who dedicated his life to the Dharma and the spiritual guidance of others.
Photo Courtesy: Zhung Dratshang and Great Buddhist Masters from Bhutan
Source: The Bhutanese*
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