UNPol in East Timor Security Briefing 26 February 2007

This morning, at approximately 0800 Hrs., a UNPol patrol unit observed two males in the Seaport Compound attempting to steal wooden pallets. The males were arrested and placed in the police vehicle. The police officers then realized that a group of 50 agitated people was going towards them. The group was advised to stop, but they continued moving towards the officers. UNPol fired three warning shots into the air. The warning shots had no effect on the group who had now begun throwing rocks towards the officers. As they were driving away from the mob, their vehicle was struck by several stones.

The families of the men deceased in the Saturday incident at Airport IDP camp took the bodies to Baucau and Viqueque for burial. Before a demonstration went through some of the major streets in town. UNPol granted the security of this event and no incidents were reported..

Yesterday, a fire, caused by electric problems, ocorred at a restaurant in Bairo Pite area.

Two UN vehicles were damaged with sling shots at Matadoro area and one near Dili Hotel by a rock throwing. The suspects ran away when the police attended the incidents.

During the night there was a rock throwing incident in a rice warehouse in Bebora and a fighting in Kampung Baru. The police attended and people dispersed.

We remind people that their contribution is essencial to achieve a safe society. Whenever you see that a fight or a rock thorwing incident is going to happen call the free emergency number and inform the police, giving important details, such as the exact location of the incident, the number of people involved and if possible, what is their intention. You may contact us through 112 or 7230365, 24 hours per day, seven days a week.

This has been a daily broadcast of the UN Police in Timor-Leste, for the people of Timor-Leste