UN SECURITY UPDATE 0800 hrs 12 December 06 Timor-Leste (Phase II)

General Observations/Summary:

In the past 24 hours there were six incidents in Dili, and two reported
from the regions.

1008 hrs, in Taibessi market IVO Aituri-Laran (Zone-2, South Dili) a local person reported that members of a Martial Arts group were attacking people in that area. UNPOL NOC was informed.

2110 hrs, in Taibessi IVO Disabled School (Zone-2, South East Dili) a UN international staff member reported that locals were fighting . UNPOL NOC was informed. A police patrol responded at the scene.

2135 hrs, in Bemori (Zone-2, South East Dili) a local person reported fighting between two Martial Arts groups. UNPOL NOC was informed. Police patrol unit responded.

2150 hrs, in Audian IVO Dili National Stadium (Zone-4, South Central Dili) an OXFAM international staff member reported that she had heard four gun shots in that area. UNPOL NOC was informed.

0105 hrs, in Taibessi IVO "My Friend bridge" (Zone-2, South East Dili) a UN national staff member reported fighting between locals. UNPOL NOC was informed.

0149 hrs, in Taibessi (Zone-2, South East Dili) a World Bank security officer reported that locals threw stones at his car and smashed two windows. No injuries reported. UNPOL patrol responded.

REGIONS
Ainaro District
0850 hrs in Ainaro district, one local person was reported murdered; two males have been arrested as suspects. PNTL are conducting an investigation.

Suai District
0900 hrs, in Suai district at sub-district Fatumean, one local person was reported murdered; one male suspect has been arrested. PNTL are conducting an investigation.

Others:
Phase Two is in effect. You should maintain a high level of personal security awareness and avoid any minor disputes or other incidents that may occur as they have the potential to escalate. Banging of poles, shops shutting quickly and the sudden disappearance of street vendors can be indications that trouble is imminent. In some areas makeshift barricades have been used to block access, you should avoid these areas. The SOP is to turn around at the roadblocks, find an alternative route and report it to NOC and SOC.

Avoid demonstrations, street rallies, and public gatherings. Such events could become catalysts for violence and civil disorder. Demonstrations can occur at or near symbols and institutions of the Government of East Timor, including the Palacio do Governo (Government Buildings), the
Courts, the Presidential Palace and the National Parliament. Avoid unnecessary travel at night.

Some gangs in Dili have attacked cars with stones and potentially lethal darts fired from slingshots. This occurs particularly in the early evening and at night. Avoid the Comoro market and Beach Road market after hours. Vehicle windows are to be up at all times and doors locked, staff are advised to refuel in daylight hours.

Districts - violent disturbances have also occurred in the districts.
Avoid large groups of people and be aware that unauthorized road blocks may also be experienced in the Districts.

Closely monitor your radio, monitor media and other local sources for information about security risks. Seek advice from the SOC. UN Staff are reminded to report any security incident/information to SOC immediately.

New Staff are advised that they are required to attend the Security Briefing on Tuesday or Thursday afternoon at 1430 hrs in the SOC briefing Room.

Travel off main roads should be avoided. Report all incidents to SOC via radio or telephone. SOC is "Sierra Base" on Ch 11, 13, 37, 38, and tel #5454 / 723-0635. The use of MOPs is mandatory for all staff.

VHF handset and cell-phone should be carried at all times with batteries charged and emergency contact numbers loaded. UN ID cards must also be carried.
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