Oé-Cusse,24 april 2023 ( TATOLI) – Today, the United States (U.S.) handed over 135 patrol kits to the Timor-Leste National Police (PNTL) in Oé-Cusse to complement the training in non-lethal use of force and raise awareness of cross-border crimes, including human trafficking.
The 135 patrol kits were handed over to the National Police by the United States Chargé d’Affaires, Tom Daley to PNTL Officers, Superintendent Nicolau Francelino da Costa at the Dili.
The documents released by the U.S. Embassy stated that the kits included First Aid supplies and safety materials to aid patrols in remote areas and sustain effective community policing in the municipality.
The kits also include field guides provided by the International Organization for Migration to assist officers in detecting potential cases of human trafficking in cross-border areas.
“The United States welcomes every opportunity to continue strengthening PNTL’s practice of effective law enforcement,” said Chargé Daley. “We are committed to partnering to protect the dignity and human rights of local communities, including people of every gender, orientation, and origin.”
Chargé Daley also expressed his gratitude to Superintendent Nicolau Francelino da Costa and PNTL officers for their commitment to effective law enforcement, particularly in community policing and border enforcement.
“The United States values PNTL’s efforts to ensure that victims and vulnerable individuals in Timor-Leste receive the assistance they need and stands ready to partner to achieve a more secure future for the Timorese people in the years ahead,”
The United States is committed to supporting Timor-Leste in strengthening the rule of law. Since Timor-Leste restored independence, the United States has sponsored nearly 400 Timorese law enforcement officials and judicial authorities for specialized training in investigations, border interdiction, and counter-narcotics at the International Law Enforcement Academy in Bangkok. The United States has also provided training and tactical equipment to the PNTL to improve operational capacity in high-risk environments.
Journalist: Camilo de Sousa
Editor: Nelia B.
