UNPol in East Timor Security Briefing 17 February 2007

Today, the police arrested ten males involved in the fightings at Kampung Baru area. The detainees will be presented to court on Monday under the charge of riotous behavior.

This afternoon, six prisoners escaped from Becora prison, one of which was captured immediately. UNPol are involved in the search of the other five, four of whom allegedly were in pre-trial detention concerning an arson case in Liquica.

In Dili, a man was shot twice. The victim is a 20 year old male and received medical treatment at Dili National Hospital. The police are already investigating the case.

The Fretilin party convention in Ermera district finished without incidents, but as some participants were leaving the area a rock throwing incident was reported. The patrol units, supported by the FPU, intervened and reestablished security.

Yesterday, several rock throwing incidents were reported in Bairro Pite and Fatuhada area. The police units and the FPU patrolled the area and avoided the rise of confrontations.

The Police provided escort to three rice trucks traveling to Manatuto, and one person was arrested for attempted theft.

During the night, alleged members of two martial art groups got involved in a fighting in Kampung Baru, but they fled away at police arrival. Also a pharmacy was set on fire in Fatuhada. No injuries were reported and the fire was extinguished provoking internal damage at the store.

In Ainaro, the body of a 60 years old female was found at Horaik village in Maubesi. She had several wounds in her body. The case is presently under investigation.

We request people to remain calm and avoid the conflict and problematic areas. Call the police whenever you suspect some incident is about to happen. Use the emergency line, 112 or 7230365, as soon as possible, giving the most accurate information. Help us to keep your community a safe place.