Riot breaks out in Viqueque

DILI, East Timor: Governor Abilio Jose Osorio Soares has ordered an investigation into fresh rioting in Viqueque this week in which dozens of shops and several places of worship were burned down.

Spokesman for the provincial government Expedito Dias Ximenes told journalists yesterday that the authorities are yet to determine what sparked the riot.

"The governor has made it clear that anyone involved in the chaos should be severely punished," Expedito said as quoted by Antara.

Viqueque regent I Ketut Lunca said the local government is yet to estimate loses caused by the rioting.

Expedito said that the situation in Viqueque was under control yesterday and business had returned to normal.

East Timor police chief Col. Andreas Sugianto said he had dispatch one squad of policemen to Viqueque in anticipation of another wave of riots. (pan)