The Indonesian commander of West Timor said Tuesday there were "one or two people" among his forces who "continued efforts" to derail the repatriation of East Timorese refugees, actions he would "not tolerate".

The army was already investigating the case and could interrogate those responsible for hobbling repatriation efforts soon, Indonesia's Antara news agency quoted Major General Willem da Costa as saying. "I've already said that I would not tolerate any action aimed to impede the return home of refugees. If it is proved they are doing this I will take harsh measures", Gen. da Costa reportedly said.

The military intelligence service was also investigating civilians suspected of intimidating refugees from returning to East Timor, he added.

In a related development, Antara also reported Tuesday that former anti-independence militia leader Joao Tavares said he was willing to stand trial after returning home, but "not immediately", as speedy trials could discourage others from returning. "All this has to be discussed in advance. Only then will the return of thousands be realized", Tavares reportedly said.

His comments came ahead of a planned fourth round of talks with Dili officials over reconciliation and repatriation. Of the estimated 250,000 East Timorese who fled or were forced by pro-Jakarta militias into Indonesia in 1999, between 30,000 and 40,000 are thought to remain, primarily in West Timor.