National Member of Parliament MP David Dias Ximenes questioned why the police station set up by the Commander of the National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL) in conflict risk area in the capital Dili of Mate La Hotu sub-village, in Beto-Leste, is not staffed.
“What is the point of setting up the police station if no one is going to be stationed there? Almost all police stations across the Dili are no staffed,” said MP Ximenes at the National Parliament, in Dili.
He added the purpose of these police stations is so that officers are closer to the community to assist resolving any problems that may arise.
“So that whoever commits a crime is arrested immediately,” he said.
Beto-Leste resident Francisco Fernandes said the area is prone to conflict so there is a need for a police presence in the sub-village.
“We need police placed here so they can control any situation,” urged Fernandes.
In response to the issue the Second Commander of PNTL, Commissioner Faustino da Costa said police officer will be posted at the police station soon.
“We will station a few officers in the particular area,” said Commissioner Costa.
He added the in past the station was staffed by a few police officers but they were recalled to perform other duties and for other priorities but that new personnel will replace them shortly.
