UNPol in East Timor Security Briefing 13 August 2007

This is a broadcast of the UN Police in Timor-Leste to provide you with information about the security situation around the country.

The security situation in Timor-Leste during the last 24 hours has remained tense, particularly in Viqueque and Baucau districts, although there were no reports of major security incidents.

UNPol responded to four incidents today in Dili. In one rock throwing incident near the airport, two UN cars were damaged and one UNPol officer sustained minor injuries. Police arrested one suspect.

Last night in Dili, sporadic incidents of rock throwing led to four UN vehicles being damaged. The incidents were concentrated around Bairo Pite, Seaport, Santa Cruz and Comoro. No injuries were reported.

In Baucau yesterday, a 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of raping a minor at an orphanage in Baguia. The Head of the UN Mission in Timor-Leste, Atul Khare, condemned the incident and said that anyone guilty of such crimes will be swiftly dealt with.

A further two people were arrested Cailara, Baucau, for possession of a home-made firearm and various traditional weapons.

At a meeting in Baucau yesterday, the FRETILIN leadership told to its supporters that local village and sub-village chiefs will be held responsible for any violence that occurs in their area.

Similarly, in Viqueque yesterday, a high-ranking FRETILIN official met with supporters and urged them not to commit any violent acts.

United Nations police officers (UNPol) in conjunction with the national police of Timor-Leste (PNTL) and the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) remain fully deployed to contain and put a stop to any violence.

The Police advise to avoid traveling during the night to the most affected areas. Please report any suspicious activities.  You can call 112 or 7230365 to contact the police 24 hours a day, seven days a week