UNPol in East Timor Security Briefing 19 June 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 across the country has been stable.

Today in Dili, UNPol conducted 42 patrols and were required to attend four incidents. One incident was an assault on the manager of a company in Dili, allegedly by the friend of a staff member whom he had recently sacked. The manager sustained minor injuries. In another incident, a PNTL district commander happened to drive past a group of people throwing rocks at a house in Metiaut. The suspects fled upon his arrival.

Yesterday in Ainaro, around five people were involved in a case of assault in Ainaro town. Three suspects were interviewed by the PNTL and the investigation is ongoing. A domestic assault was also reported in Ainaro. The victim is currently in Ainaro hospital and the extent of her injuries is not yet known. PNTL will be obtaining a statement from the victim upon her release and will pursue the case.

Last night in Ermera, UNPol received a report of three houses being partially burnt one day previously, two in Urahou village and one in Ramian village. A Formed Police Unit intervened and extinguished the fire in Urahou. Both incidents are under investigation by UNPol / PNTL, and as yet there is no evidence to suggest that they are politically motivated.

Yesterday in Lautem sub-district, a rock was thrown from one convoy of supporters at another rival convoy that was passing them. UNPol managed to calm the situation before it could escalate, and both campaigns proceeded peacefully. Separately, at around 1400hrs, there was a fight between families in the sub-village of Gizmea. The fight arose over the suspected theft of corn. A 19-year-old man was referred to Dili hospital with head injuries.

In Viqueque, the firearms of local PNTL officers have been handed over to UNPol Forensics officers, who have brought them back to Dili for further examination in relation to the Viqueque and Ossu shooting incidents that took place on Sunday 3 June.

Campaigning continues across the country today. Eleven political rallies were scheduled to take place, and as yet there have been no reports of any associated security incidents.

The Police advise to avoid traveling during the night to the most affected areas. Report any suspicious activities and avoid traveling the areas affected by disturbances. Call 112 or 7230365 to contact the police 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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