Over the two weeks PNTL have conducted a Special Operation in Bobonaro and Cova Lima Districts in response to the rumours of ‘ninjas’ (unidentified persons with covered faces) operating in these districts. Police have reportedly arrested approximately 13 suspects including several with suspected involvement in recent murders in the area. Several suspects were later released for lack of evidence against them. The police have stated in the media that these illegal armed groups have been stopped. The police again reported that there have not been any further incidents reported to police relating to these alleged roving groups. Most NGO programs in these areas are reported as on-going although some activities have been delayed due to concerns over the potential for security incidents in remote areas.
Reports from local people in the areas, particularly around the Bobonaro/Cova Lima District borders, is that there is a quite high level of fear regarding these rumours. There are some indirect local reports of small night-time incidents of terrorization by unknown people in some villages (such as knives allegedly being thrust through residential doors in the middle of the night). These incidents are not confirmed but illustrate the level of local concern and related perceived security instability.
In media statements over the past week, the PNTL Commander has stated that he plans to continue focused police operations in these areas over the next six months. He further stated that the National Military (F-FDTL) will likely be involved in these security operations. It is unclear at this time how the military will be used.

Security Advisory: Advice from the District Police in Bobonaro to NGOs is that program activities during daylight hours are considered safe and should be able to continue as normal. Police advise that staff shouldn’t travel at night and should limit solitary travel, particularly in the Bobonaro sub-district.