The transfer of authority is intended to provide greater operational space and an opportunity for the PNTL to operate more independently, under the supervision and continued mentoring of international police.

Under Resolution 1704, UNMIT is mandated to support the training, institutional development and strengthening of the PNTL.

The decision has been taken by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Atul Khare in consultation with the Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão.

"Today's transfer marks an important milestone in the reconstitution of PNTL" said SRSG Khare, stressing that assumption of responsibilities in all fields by the Timorese, assisted by the international community was essential for long-term sustainability of stability, peace and development.

The decision to transfer these three posts to the PNTL has been based on number of criteria including that the posts are managed by fully certified PNTL officers and that adequate logistical support is provided to the PNTL for them to perform their duties.

Over the longer term, the assumption of full PNTL authority will also depend upon the development of a cooperative relationship based on mutual respect and trust between the PNTL and the F-FDTL and demonstrated public confidence in the PNTL.

UNPol will continue to supervise the posts over the next couple of months to ensure that these criteria are being met and continue with the training and mentoring activities. The experience learned from this will be the basis of greater responsibility being handed to the PNTL over the coming months in other districts.

For more information please call UNMIT Spokesperson Allison Cooper on +670 7230453 or Hipolito Gama on +670 7311839