Dili, June 10, 2026 (Media Democracia) – The National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL), through the Directorate of Criminal Investigation Services (DSIK), clarified the case of suspected phone “theft” that resulted in the death of Nadine Batista R.D. Carmo, aged 15, at Praia dos Coqueiros last Sunday (7/6).
The two suspects believed to have committed the crime have already been captured by the joint team, with the initials JACR and MZX.
PNTL General Command Spokesperson, Police Superintendent João Belo dos Reis, said that for the theft case in the Praia dos Coqueiros area, PNTL has already detained two suspects.
“We captured the two suspects yesterday at midday in BTN Tasi Tolu.” said the Director of the Criminal Investigation Services Directorate, João Belo, to journalists during a press conference held at PNTL General Headquarters in Caicoli, this Tuesday.
Belo informed that the two suspects had already carried out an act three days earlier behind the Gracia shop in Kampung Baru, and the motorbike they used to snatch belongings at Praia dos Coqueiros was also stolen three days ago.
“We will compile these processes and present them to the Court. Now they are in our custody for detention for 72 hours. After 72 hours we will submit them to the Court.” he said.
He explained that PNTL has already registered the case of the two suspects in the phone “theft” that resulted in Nandine losing her life under NUC 0206/2026PNSIK.
“The bag they snatched at the crime scene and the motorbike they used, we also inform the public that anyone who feels their motorbike was lost behind the Gracia shop three days ago should come and provide information about their missing motorbike.” he affirmed.
The PNTL Spokesperson said the case is still under investigation and the investigation is ongoing.
“So I cannot explain in detail who will be summoned, but we will continue to follow up on the statements we obtained from witnesses.” he added.
Chief Police Superintendent João Belo explained that for the case resulting in Nandine’s death, PNTL continues to ask the Public Prosecution Service to continue tracking down people involved, because the suspects are part of a group, so police are continuing to pursue them.
Therefore, the Director of the Criminal Investigation Services Directorate asked parents to educate their children to respect others. He also asked parents that if they never bought a motorbike for their children but their children go out using one, they should check to know whose motorbike it is.
“That way, we cannot tolerate our children’s criminal actions that harm other people’s rights and property.” he concluded.
Reporting: Estefánia Cardoso
Photo: Estefánia Cardoso