Militia in East Timor returning to Indonesia, UN mission says
17 October -- The United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET) today reported that the number of militia members currently in the territory stood at no more than 100, after the recent return of at least 30 militia to West Timor.
In a statement issued today in Dili, UNTAET said the 30 members had been part of a group of 120-150 militia men who had infiltrated East Timor. The Mission also said there were "further indications" that other militia groups were attempting to return to West Timor.
Meanwhile, no change has been reported in the operational pattern of the militia groups. "They continue to avoid contact with Peacekeeping Forces and only come down from their hideouts in the pursuit of food," UNTAET said.
According to UNTAET peacekeepers, the quality of the militia fighters varies, with some members poorly equipped and others well-armed and exhibiting some degree of military-style training.
