Macau Business – Timor-Leste's government approved a resolution on Wednesday at a cabinet meeting to boost police patrols nationwide following violence in several areas.
"This decision follows violence recorded in recent weeks in several parts of the country involving groups of young people, with serious consequences for citizens' physical integrity, private property and community stability," a cabinet statement said.
The latest incident occurred on Sunday in Lautem, in the east, where a clash involving a group of young people may have caused one citizen's death.
"The government unequivocally and vehemently condemns all acts of violence and destruction resulting in loss of life, injury or damage to private property, regardless of the perpetrators or motivation," the government, led by Xanana Gusmao, said.
The resolution states police must increase patrols across Timor-Leste, especially at times and in areas where young people gather.
Authorities also called for community leaders to report activities covered by a ban on martial arts and ritual arts (traditional mystical practices often linked to local groups).
"Local authorities, the Oecussi special administrative region and Atauro administrative authority must ensure they immediately pass this information to the police," the statement said.
The government also reiterated the nationwide temporary suspension of martial arts and ritual arts teaching and practice, as well as the closure of related facilities.
"This exceptional, proportional and preventive measure aims to stop the use of these activities to organise violent acts," the statement said.
Timor-Leste's government extended the suspension of martial arts teaching, learning and practice in December 2025 until June 2026, along with the closure of sites and facilities used for training.
The government suspended martial arts teaching, learning and practice in November 2023 following serious nationwide incidents that killed at least four people and injured 26 others.