Better for PNTL and UNPOL to Arrest Alfredo

Jornal Diario Nacional, 31/1/08

Dili, Timor-Leste

The Commander of the International Stabilsation Forces (ISF) John Hutcheson stated that the ISF does not have the right to arrest Alfredo and his group, but if the court wants to arrest him it will be better to send the Timor-Leste National Police (PNTL) and UNPOL who have that function in Timor-Leste to arrest people.

The ISF Commander John Hutcheson said this to journalists following having participated in a farewell ceremony with the new ISF Commander James Baker at the ISF General Headquarters, Caicoli, Dili (28/1).

The ISF Commander explained further that it is the police who are able to undertake the arrest of Alfredo because according to the law in place it is the police who are able to arrest persons who have committed crimes, but the military cannot undertake such arrests.

"The relationship between the ISF and the Timor-Leste judiciary are good. But we do not have the right to capture or arrest anyone, especially those who commit crimes or other violations," said the ISF commander.

Regarding the order that the ISF received recently from the court to capture Major Alfredo, the ISF Commander explained that only the court will be able to explain to the public the fundamental reason why the ISF cannot capture Major Alfredo in accordance with the letter sent by the court to the ISF.

"Regarding our not capturing Alfredo, only the court will be able to respond to this question," recounted the ISF Commander.

When asked about the ISF action in Same some time ago, the ISF Commander explained that it was part of the ISF's role to guarantee security to enable the people to go about their activities in peace. (END)

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