EWER: Situation Review January 2017

In January, Belun’s Early Warning, Early Response (EWER) system continued monitoring for violent incidents and changes to the security situation in Timor-Leste. Field monitors recorded 129 incidents, including 27 incidents on New Year’s Day alone. ManyAi??of these incidents involved intoxicated neighbors quarrelling over past, unresolved disputes. Throughout the month, incidents involving neighbours and alcohol abuse were unusually prevalent. EWER monitors recorded five deaths in January, including two suicides that appeared to result from the prohibitive cost of a dowry and cultural ceremony. Large group fights in Dili and Manatuto also resulted in two deaths. One police officer was also found dead of an apparent suicide, but police have called the circumstances suspicious. For more details and a statistical breakdown of all incidents recorded in January, please read the full situation review.