The suspect in the murder of the victim known as AHL is in preventative custody in Becora Prison.
The murder took place in the Beto sub-village December 1, 2013. Acting Chief for Criminal Investigation (SIC), Inspector Manuel Alves, said police initially arrested 12 people over the murder with one now still a suspect.
“Currently he is in Becora, in preventative custody,” Inspector Alves said in Kaikoli, Dili.
The suspect, known as SR, is alleged to have killed the victim because of past problems between the pair.
It is alleged that AHL died on the spot after being struck in the back of the neck with a piece of steel by AHL at 4am.
The suspect allegedly then disposed of AHL’s body in a drain.
Inspector Alves said as the suspect is accused of a serious crime, he would remain in preventative custody while awaiting judgment in court.
Member of Parliament (MP) Josefa Alvares Soares praised the work of SIK to arrest the suspect.
“It shows that PNTL has made an effort and has collaborated well with the community,” MP Soares said.
She called on the government to provide the PNTL with facilities necessary to perform its duties.
Beto resident Timur Manuel da Costa said quick action on behalf of the police to arrest the suspect would act as a deterrent for youths and those who were at risk of committing crimes.
