DILI, 09 january 2026 (TATOLI) – The Government of Timor-Leste, through the Secretary of State for Vocational Training and Employment (SEFOPE), in coordination with South Korean authorities, has repatriated the body of Timorese worker Manuel Albuquerque from South Korea.
Albuquerque, 30, was reported missing on november 25, 2025, after allegedly falling into the sea while working at the bow of a fishing vessel.
His body was later recovered from the waters off Geoje-si, South Korea, on december 19, at around 8:40 a.m.
Authorities confirmed his identity through fingerprint verification.
The body arrived in Timor-Leste and was officially handed over to the family on thursday, january 8, at Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport in Dili.
SEFOPE Director-General Carlito Rosário Cabral, representing the government at the handover ceremony, expressed deep sorrow and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the family.
Manuel Albuquerque was born on July 11, 1995, in Ria Mori hamlet, Haupú village, Letefoho Administrative Post, Ermera Municipality.
He was the eldest child of the late Américo dos Santos and Maria do Carmo, and has three brothers and a sister.
Albuquerque departed for South Korea on november 20, 2022, to work in the fisheries sector under a three-year contract.
During his time working in South Korea, he helped support his family financially, especially his widowed mother.
TATOLI
