More Authority For National Police In Timor-Leste

UN transfers more authority to national police in Timor-Leste

4 February 2008 - United Nations Police in Timor-Leste today transferred authority to their national counterparts at three police posts in the capital, Dili.

"Today's transfer marks an important milestone in the reconstitution of the PNTL," said Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's Special Representative, Atul Khare, referring to the Timorese National Police.

He stressed that assumption of responsibilities in all fields by the Timorese, assisted by the international community, was essential for long-term sustainability of stability, peace and development.

The UN Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) said the transfer of authority in Bairro Pite, Bidau and Mercado Lama is intended to help the PNTL to operate more independently, under the supervision and continued mentoring of international police.

The decision, taken by Mr. Khare in consultation with the Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão, was based on number of criteria including that the posts are managed by fully certified PNTL officers and that adequate logistical support is provided to enable them to perform their duties.

UNMIT said UN Police will continue to supervise the posts in the coming months to ensure that these criteria are being met while maintaining training and mentoring activities.

ENDS

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