UNPol in East Timor Security Briefing 15 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, Baucau and Lautem districts, although there are no reports of major security incidents.

United Nations police officers (UNPol) in conjunction with the national police of Timor-Leste (PNTL) and the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) remain fully deployed.

Today in Dili, UNPol attended two incidents. Neither was serious.

Early yesterday morning in Viqueque, the ISF evacuated the PNTL officer who had been stabbed a few hours earlier in Matahoi village. He is now being treated at the ISF compound in Dili. Police have identified and are searching for the suspects in the stabbing.

No security incidents were reported in Baucau yesterday. The body of deceased male was discovered in Bagia sub-district, but there is no evidence to suggest that he was murdered.

Also in Baucau, seven people have been arrested in connection with the attack on a UN convoy that took place near Fatumaka last Friday, and Police and ISF remain on alert in case of any disturbances.

Yesterday in Covalima, the body of a deceased male was found in an isolated village called Lepo. UNPol and PNTL have been dispatched to the scene to search for evidence.

The United Nations family in Timor-Leste has been providing security and logistical support to the Government to expedite the delivery of urgently needed food and resources to the areas affected by the recent disturbances. Yesterday in Naiboruk village, Watolari and Watocarbo subdistricts, Government humanitarian assistance was distributed to schools and orphanages.

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.