Timor-Leste: UN congratulates police for recapturing escaped prisoner

The head of the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) today congratulated the police force of the small Asian country for recapturing an escaped prisoner who has been at large since escaping from custody on 17 February.

Jose Da Silva, who was apprehended by the National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL) in Lusatia earlier this week, had been charged with murder and arson on 6 January.

“This is a very important arrest,” said Atul Khare, head of UNMIT. “The rule of law must prevail in Timor-Leste, and criminals must learn that they cannot act with impunity.”

Yesterday, UN Police and PNTL held a joint seminar on the reform, restructuring and reconstitution of the police force of the nation which the world body shepherded to independence in 2002.

“An effective PNTL are a key part of this new chapter in the story of Timor-Leste,” Mr. Khare noted.