Dili, 19 May 2026 (Media Democracia) – The National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL), through the Dili Municipality Command, has received operational directives from the PNTL General Command to prepare a security operation for the 24th Anniversary of the Restoration of Independence on May 20, 2026, in Tasi-tolu. This includes conducting outreach to students in schools and to communities.
“The Dili Municipality Command is making security preparations for this Restoration Day. First, we conduct outreach to our students and hold dialogue with communities to guarantee the security situation before entering the Commemoration of the Restoration of Independence. We conduct foot patrols in neighborhoods to guarantee the security situation in Dili Capital as we move toward the Day of the Commemoration of the Restoration of Independence.” said the Dili Municipality PNTL Commander, Assistant Police Commissioner Orlando Gomes, to journalists at his office in the Dom Aleixo Sub-Station on Monday (18/05/26).
The Dili Municipality Commander informed that the command already has a security plan that will involve the Police Special Unit (UEP) and the Maritime Police Unit (UPM), which received directives from the PNTL General Command to support the Dili Municipality Command in guaranteeing security.
“Our members have been deployed since yesterday (17/05/2026) for the opening of the May 20 holidays with a concert in Tasi-tolu and also for the exhibition of local products in Tasi-tolu. The Dili Municipality Command coordinates with the Commander of the Police Special Unit (UEP) at two posts, one post for the Police Special Unit (UEP) and one post for the Dili Municipality Command (KMD) in Tasi-tolu, in order to secure Tasi-tolu during the concert and exhibition activities.” he said.
He added that PNTL members have also been deployed to the May 20 ceremony site, positioned in three locations, at the affected security area, the approach area, and near the ceremony itself.
“Near the ceremony to ensure this important ceremony runs well, because it will also receive visits from foreign guests. After May 20 there are also activities that need to be secured properly so that security in Dili capital can run well and successfully.” Orlando Gomes concluded.
Report By: Estefánia Cardoso
Photo: Estefánia Cardoso