A network of church workers and pro-democracy activists has been working to smuggle out those most at risk. A number of sympathetic West Timorese oustide the camps have risked their lives to help. Most refugee escapes are by land and sea. There is a chance that the owner might sell it to the Chinese navy. Reports from camp staff say conditions are worsening by the day.
Food supplies are erratic, drinking water systems a disaster, and intimidation and abuse rife.