East Timor Violence: 3 Dead in Dili 🇹🇱

(26 Aug 1999) English/Nat
At least three people have died in the latest outbreak of violence in East Timor between opponents and supporters of independence for the troubled territory.
Witnesses said at least two people were killed as militiamen fired shots and hurled bombs at groups of rock-throwing separatists.
Indonesian police sealed off large sections of the capital, Dili, following the bloody clashes, while frightened residents stayed indoors.
The violence erupted just days before East Timor is expected to go to the polls in a U-N supervised referendum on independence.
Emotions were running high on Thursday - the next to last day of campaigning for the referendum on East Timor's future status.
Monday's U-N-supervised referendum will offer a choice between independence or remaining part of Indonesia as an autonomous province.
Daily clashes have become increasingly bloody between rival factions in the run-up to the historic ballot.
Thursday's violence erupted as some 15-thousand opponents of independence took part in a final rally in the capital, Dili.
Many in the crowd appeared to be members of militia groups.
Dozens brandished homemade shotguns and other weapons, violating a U-N imposed ban on the carrying of weapons.
At one point during the rally, militants started stoning the headquarters of the main pro-independence group.
Officers fired warning shots in an apparent attempt to clear the streets but failed to disperse the crowds.
Witnesses said two people were killed as militiamen fired shots and hurled bombs at rock throwing separatists.
One body was left lying in a pool of blood.
Another protester was shot to death by Indonesian police, who were accused by witnesses of doing little to prevent attacks by militiamen.
But unconfirmed reports said the death toll was higher.
Three people sustained gunshot wounds and many more were stabbed or hit by rocks and bottles.
Blasts from homemade grenades repeatedly rocked the area
Security forces attempted to contain the violence and forcefully arrested some activists.
Indonesian police sealed off large sections of Dili following the bloody clashes.
Many frightened residents stayed indoors.
The lead-up to the ballot has been marred by attacks and threats against civilians and U-N staff by those opposed to independence.
Earlier in the day, in the eastern area of Dili, a mob of pro-independence supporters set upon two anti-independence Indonesian supporters.
Civilians in favour of independence claimed the militia shot at and set fire to one of their houses.
The smouldering shells of burnt out cars and houses were testimony to the attack.
Several civilians were injured, including an old woman.
In tears, she said stones were thrown at her.
Indonesian police were quickly on the scene and tried to diffuse the situation.
SOUNDBITE: (English)
"A lot of people are already crazy; when people with this information goes to that gathering."
SUPER CAPTION: Intelligence Officer
Daily clashes between small rival gangs have become increasingly bloody.
As many as 60-thousand people have fled their homes because of violence seemingly designed to scupper the ballot.
Some fear the violence will result in a decisive win for the independence camp.
Meanwhile, in a surprise development, Justice Minister Muladi said jailed East Timor resistance leader Xanana Gusmao was expected to be released on September 15.
Gusmao, a hero to supporters of Timorese independence, was captured and jailed by Jakarta in 1992 for leading armed resistance to Indonesian rule in the territory.

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