Dili, July 3, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL), through its Criminal Investigation Service Directorate (DSIK) in cooperation with the Timor-Leste Immigration Service (SMTL), carried out a joint operation rescuing six underage girls from several hotels in Dili suspected of facilitating child sexual exploitation. This was reported by PNTL via its official page on Tuesday.
PNTL Spokesperson, Superintendent Chief João Belo dos Reis, stated that based on information received on 30 June at around 9:00 PM, security authorities formed a team from DSIK and SMTL to conduct a joint operation targeting hotels within Dili suspected of enabling child prostitution and the sexual exploitation of minors.
“In this joint operation, we secured six underage girls from several hotels that were facilitating child prostitution and the sexual exploitation of minors. They were immediately transported to the PNTL General Headquarters for identification and were then returned to their families while awaiting legal proceedings,” said PNTL Spokesperson João Belo dos Reis during a press conference at PNTL Headquarters in Caicoli, Dili.
The spokesperson further explained that along with rescuing the girls, the joint team also identified the hotel owners, workers, and visitors present at the hotels during the operation.
“We have completed the identification process of hotel owners and their staff. The team is currently preparing an incident report to be submitted to the Public Prosecutor’s Office for further legal processing in accordance with Timor-Leste’s law,” he added.
He emphasized that regarding this case of child prostitution and sexual exploitation of minors, PNTL urges all parents and guardians to be vigilant and monitor their children’s activities, especially when they leave or return home. This is to prevent them from becoming victims of individuals or groups with harmful intentions.
He reiterated the importance of parental responsibility and noted that the case has already been submitted to the Public Prosecutor’s Office for further legal action.
Reporting: Nelfiano
Photo: PNTL Media