UNPol in East Timor Security Briefing 29 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 on the eve of elections has generally been calm.

Today in Dili, UNPol were required to attend only three incidents. One was in response to a house fire in the Delta Two area. The fire was extinguished quickly, and damage to the property was minimal. All evidence indicates that the fire was accidental.

In response to the violence during the past week in Home village, Lautem district, local political stakeholders yesterday signed an Accord to stop all hostilities and live peacefully.

Similarly, in Ermera yesterday, representatives from five political parties met to discuss how best to prevent further violence in the local area. The outcome of the meeting was a commitment to more dialogue aimed at specific trouble-spots and solving specific issues. Party representatives also pledged to call for calm in their communities upon their return from the meeting, and urged people not to involve local problems in national politics.

Tomorrow the Elections Security Plan will move into phase three, which covers Election Day 30 June. UNPol and PNTL will be deployed at very polling centre. Mobile patrols will monitor the surrounding  areas and Formed Police Units will be available to rapidly attend any emergencies. These measures are in place to ensure that all Timorese can vote without fear of violence or intimidation.

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.