7 March 2001 -- The United Nations police force in East Timor today arrested three individuals for disturbing a conference in Dili where Timorese leader Xanana Gusmão addressed hundreds of students.

The presence of the Civilian Police, also referred to as "CivPol," followed warnings of possible disturbances with Mr. Gusmão as the main target, the UN Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET) said in a statement issued today.

One of the men was arrested after disobeying police orders not to approach Mr. Gusmão, who was addressing the students. Two of the three individuals detained had outstanding warrants following the burning of UN vehicles in February this year, UNTAET said. All three are now in police custody for questioning.

"The incident that took place today at Dili's gymnasium reminds us of the importance that law and order be ensured for a peaceful transition of East Timor to an independent and democratic nation," said Jean-Christian Cady, deputy head of UNTAET. "In preventing an aggression against Xanana Gusmão, CivPol has done its duty. The political process in which we are now engaged can only succeed in an atmosphere in which dialogue and tolerance win out over violence."

 

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Not an official document of the United Nations. Maintained by the Peace and Security Section of the Department of Public Information in cooperation with the Department of Peacekeeping Operations. (c) United Nations 2001