This is far too many and the number should be dramatically and quickly reduced. Moreover, the army's role in policing is excessive and should be curtailed. Even the apprehension of legitimate criminals exceeds acceptable boundaries. The people of East Timor are living their lives in fear. The uncertainty there is further exacerbated by the absence of credible media and accurate information.
Rumors fly about constantly.
During the few days I was there, numerous stories, often conflicting, circulated about additional shootings, arrests, beatings and other terrifying acts, none of which could be confirmed by the time we left. On occasion rumors would incite an East Timorese reaction which would then provoke the army to react causing still more abuse. Uncertainty causes fear which stimulates further terror swirling about the people of East Timor. Men and women on the street were fearful to speak with me about conditions there, especially when in the vicinity or presence of other unknown civilians. Even in private, people spoke of conditions only in a hushed whisper and were clearly fearful.