Five suspects of the 11 who were involved in a series of Chorten vandalism and Lhakhang robberies were sentenced to life imprisonment. The verdict was passed jointly by the Drangpons of Trashigang, Monggar, Zhemgang, Trashiyangtse, Wangdue Phodrang and Bumthang on Friday in Trashigang.
Four others who were involved in smuggling of Serge Ja-tongpa were also sentenced to imprisonment ranging from one to three years. However, two suspects were acquitted, one was proven innocent and the other was given benefit of doubt.