Dili, July 30, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The National Criminal Investigation Service (DSIKN) of the Timor-Leste National Police (PNTL) conducted an operation on July 24, 2025, in the Bairo-Pite area following information that the site was facilitating sexual exploitation or prostitution. This was reported by Média Democracia based on information accessed through PNTL’s official page on Wednesday.
PNTL spokesperson, Police Superintendent João Belo dos Reis, stated during a press conference that upon receiving the information, DSIKN immediately carried out the operation and managed to identify seven (7) victims, including a witness, and detained one suspect.
“Regarding this case, on July 27, 2025, the suspect was brought before the court and placed in preventive detention. Therefore, as the security authority, we urge all citizens to report any groups involved in sexual exploitation activities in the municipalities, especially in known hotspots,” said PNTL Spokesperson João Belo dos Reis.
The Superintendent further explained that the Timor-Leste National Police (PNTL) took immediate action as such activities can negatively impact people’s lives, particularly the youth. The operation targeted suspected sites where such exploitative activities were believed to be occurring.
“The National Intelligence Service (SNI) continues strict monitoring and, once identified, the Security Authorities (PNTL) will not tolerate individuals involved in sexual exploitation activities. Our ongoing operations aim to investigate and identify such sites,” said PNTL Command representative João Belo dos Reis.
The current Director of DSIKN emphasized that this activity is illegal and poses serious health risks, such as HIV/AIDS transmission. He urged all citizens to protect themselves and be cautious of unprotected sexual activities.
The PNTL Command further explained that through the DSIKN, they carried out the operation on July 24, 2025, at a location suspected of being involved in sexual exploitation in Bairo-Pite, where seven victims were rescued. This kind of exploitation can significantly impact the lives of others, especially the youth, who are the future of this nation. Therefore, the public is urged to take preventive measures to avoid the spread of HIV/AIDS in the country.
Reported by: Nelfiano
Photo by: Média PNTL