Australia warns of upsurge in East Timor violence

SYDNEY: East Timor is likely to face an upsurge in anti-government protests and civil unrest this week, Australia warned in a travel advisory on Sunday.       

Australians in the troubled country should avoid visiting government buildings and steer clear of demonstrations and rallies, the foreign affairs department said.          

The travel advisory gave no reason for the predicted increase in unrest in East Timor, where Australian-led international peacekeeping forces are struggling to contain violence which first erupted in May.            

"The potential for anti-government protests, street demonstrations and other civil unrest activities is likely to increase during the period 17-19 September 2006 and the following week," the Australian advisory said.             

"Symbols and institutions of the government of East Timor, including the Palacio do Governo, the Court, the Presidential Palace and the National Parliament should be avoided during this period. You should avoid demonstrations, street rallies and public gatherings. Such events could become catalysts for violence and civil disorder."      

At least 21 people were killed in May when gangs aligned along eastern and western divisions fought pitched street battles while security forces waged attacks on each other after some 600 deserting soldiers were sacked.           

The unrest prompted the deployment of 3,200 international peacekeepers, but sporadic low-level unrest has continued to plague the capital Dili and tens of thousands of refugees remain in camps, too afraid to return to their homes.        

Last week, one person was killed and several were injured in street clashes between gang members in Dili.