Military, police barred in free zone

Military, police barred in free zone

ATAMBUA, East Nusa Tenggara: Belu Police chief Adj. Sr. Comm. Agus Nugroho said on Saturday that the Indonesian Military (TNI) and police personnel would not be allowed to stay in the Indonesia-East Timor free zone, based on a technical agreement between his office and the UN civilian police.

Military and police personnel could enter the area only if something related to their functions or duties took place there, he said.

"But they should keep away from the Tactical Coordination Line (TCL) between the areas of Turiskain and Tonobibi. They can enter the border to a distance of 600 meters only," Agus said.

The agreement was signed by Agus and Bobonaro District Civilian Police chief Supt. Mark. Agus. The agreement stipulated that only UN personnel had the right to enter the free zone.

The agreement would be reviewed every two weeks during the Tactical Coordination Working Group meeting. --Antara