UNPol in East Timor Security Briefing 8 January 2008

UNPol Daily Security Briefing 8 January 2008 -  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 has been calm.

Today in Dili, police responded to three incidents, including a report of a boat that has gone missing on its way from Dili to Atauro. The boat has two people on board, a twenty-seven-year-old and a thirty-year-old man. Police have conducted searches from the shores in Hera, Metinaro, Dili Seaport and Liquica, but have found no sign of the boat. Two helicopters are involved in the search, and the International Security Forces (ISF) have also been notified.

On Monday in Ermera, an UNPol and PNTL patrol arrested seven men in relation to the incidents of arson that occurred in Lebo Rema sub-village on 5 January. The police were patrolling the area after reports that fighting was going to resume between the two groups from Lebo Rema and Eraulo sub-villages. Several weapons were found on the arrested men, including one machete, one dart, one bow, twelve arrows and two slingshots.

On Monday in Dili, police received a report that gunshots were heard in the Tasi Tolu area. The ISF have confirmed that the shots were probably coming from the ISF firing range in the area.

Separately, police arrested a total of seven people yesterday in Dili: five for assault, one for rock throwing, and one for damaging property.

Heavy rains continue across the country, particularly in the west. Latest reports indicate that the bridge between Ermera Town and Gleno has been damaged and is currently unsafe to cross.

The police advise to avoid travelling 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.