High Security As Hundreds Attend Timor Rebels’ Funeral

High security is in force in East Timor’s capital, Dili, as hundreds of mourners attend the funeral of Alfredo Reinado, the fugitive military leader gunned down during this week’s dramatic attempt to kill East Timor’s top two leaders. The state of emergency imposed after the assassination bids has been extended for 10 days until 23 February.

United Nations police in East Timor say they have hard evidence against five known suspects in Monday’s attacks against the president and prime minister. Anne Barker reports from Dili.

[Barker] Investigators believe 15 men were responsible for the two separate attacks around dawn on Monday, 12 of them in two cars at the home of President Jose Ramos-Horta and three in a car that fired on the motorcade carrying Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao. Most were known supporters of the rebel leader Alfredo Reinado, who was shot dead in the gunfight.

Reinado and another rebel are being buried today, side by side in a double grave at the Reinado family home. Hundreds of family, friends and sympathizers have turned out to pay their last respects. Police were out in force to prevent any outbreak of violence, but so far the funeral has been peaceful.

Originally published by Radio Australia, Melbourne, in English 0700 14 Feb 08.

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