DILI, 03 june 2024 (TATOLI) – Several Timorese clashed on sunday morning in Fátima, Portugal, causing three serious injuries and one fatality. So far, the reasons behind the clashes are unknown.
The Director General for Bilateral Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation (MNEC), Francisco Maukura, expressed his regret and anger.
“We are shocked by this situation. The clashes occurred in the Sanctuary of Fátima, a sacred place. It also disappoints us, showing our young people’s moral degradation and lack of sensitivity. Situations like this are unfavorable for Timor-Leste’s image in Europe and the world,” Maukura told Tatoli in Dili.
According to Francisco Maukura, Timor-Leste’s Embassy in Portugal has confirmed what happened and revealed that the Portuguese authorities have already arrested several young people suspected of being involved in the clashes.
He added that the MNEC, in coordination with the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Art, and Culture, is waiting for the investigation to be finalized before taking any further decisions.
“We will wait for the results of the Portuguese authorities’ investigation to be presented to the Timorese Executive so that the two governments can take further decisions,” he concluded.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
