DILI, 25 March 2026 (TATOLI) – The Council of Ministers on Wednesday approved the appointments Afonso dos Santos as Commander-General of the National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL) and Natércia Eufrásia Soares Martins as Second Commander-General of PNTL, for a three-year term on secondment.
The appointment resolution was presented by Interior Minister Francisco da Costa Guterres.
The Council of Ministers also expressed its appreciation for the dedication and hard work of the outgoing Commissioner-General and Second Commissioner-General, Henrique da Costa and Pedro Belo, respectively.
Additionally, following the proposal of the Minister of the Interior and in accordance with the previous decision, a draft Government Resolution was approved to remove Natércia Eufrásia Soares Martins from her position as Executive Director of the Migration Service and to appoint PNTL Chief Superintendent Jorge Monteiro to that position, on a three-year secondment.
Afonso dos Santos, who previously served as Commander of the PNTL National Operations Command, said he is ready to lead the institution throughout his mandate.
“This appointment reflects the government’s confidence in me. I am prepared to work and contribute to the development of the PNTL,” he told TATOLI.
He also expressed confidence in collaborating with the newly appointed Deputy Commander-General, highlighting her competence and readiness to carry out her duties.
These appointments mark a new phase of leadership for Timor-Leste’s security and migration institutions, aiming to strengthen institutional capacity and public safety across the country.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
