Dili, December 8, 2006 - Seventeen people arrested last Tuesday in relation to an alleged attack on the police post in Bidau have been remanded in custody after appearing in the Dili District Court yesterday.

The judge presiding over the first inquiry administered the most severe punishment possible by ordering that the men who allegedly attacked the police officers be remanded in custody until their trial on a date yet to be set.

UNPol spokeswoman Monica Rodrigues said at about 6.30pm on Tuesday, a large group of people allegedly threw rocks and darts into the interior of the station. When the police officers tried to determine the reason for the attack they were also allegedly threatened with machetes and sling shots with metal balls for missiles.

UNPol, with the help from a New Zealand Defence Force Unit, pursued the alleged offenders, arresting 17 people near the Bidau bridge and confiscating 21 weapons.

The attack appeared to be motivated by the earlier arrest of a group member that day. That member was charged with the possession of a gas grenade and a baton, in connection with martial arts groups rivalries.

Extensive police patrols will continue across the city to maintain peace and security and prevent violence.

For more information call: Allison Cooper, Officer in Charge and Spokesperson UNMIT; +670 723 0453