UNPol in East Timor Security Briefing 06 February 2007

The security situation in Dili is tense but under control.

One of the two family members who were assaulted by the mentally ill male on 3 February 2007, in Viqueque, has succumbed to her neck injury. She was 65 years old. The mentally ill male has been arrested and PNTL officers are presently investigating into the matter.

On 4 February 2007, in Bobonaro District, three PNTL officers were attacked on their way home after performing security duties in Raifun village, Maliana, when they came across a road block comprising barbwire and rocks. Just as they stopped the motorcycle, they were attacked with stones. The three of them defended themselves by firing three shots into the air and the suspects fled. However, one of the PNTL officers had sustained a slingshot dart on his abdomen and is currently receiving treatment at Maliana Hospital. The doctor assesses his condition to be stable. Four suspects have been identified; three of them have been arrested and one is still at large. All of them are 7-7 gang members. Enquiries are in progress.

On 5 February 2007, were taken before the Judge of Dili Court due to homicide, two men accused of involvement in the murder of the PNTL officer at Perumnas-Bairro Pite, on 21 January 2007, were taken before the Judge at Dili Court and charged for homicide. They were among the group of 32 (thirty two) suspects who are presently under custody at the Dili Detention Centre on charges of riotous behavior, after the successful operation recently conducted by Investigators of Dili District. Enquiries to locate and arrest two other suspects are currently being undertaken by NID.

PNTL REFORM, RESTRUCTURING & REBUILDING PLAN:

The screening of registered PNTL personnel (inclusive of UIR personnel) continues. Registration forms have been sent to five districts to commence the registration of PNTL. Other districts will also be supplied with the registration forms to commence the screening process.

ELECTORAL SECURITY PLANNING:

Registration of voters in capital is on-going. The Special Task Force set up by UNPOL continues to provide security at the various registration sites. Election briefing and training in preparation for the election on 9 April 2007 is undergoing for UNPOL and PNTL officers in the Districts.

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