Chinese Authorities Arrest Prominent Tibetan Influencer Sonam Choedrub

Chinese authorities have arrested Sonam Choedrub, a popular Tibetan internet entrepreneur and philanthropist, at Xining Caojiapu International Airport in early December, according to Radio Free Asia. Officials allege Choedrub’s involvement in theft and other unspecified crimes from years prior, though no evidence has been provided. Choedrub, widely known for his generosity, amassed a significant following through social commerce live streams and has donated substantial sums to support Tibet's poor, elderly, and disabled. Authorities also detained four others and issued a public notice seeking information on alleged crimes. Reports suggest rising arrests targeting Tibetan influencers amid claims of "cleaning up" the internet.