Dili, April 20, 2026 (Lusa) - Timor-Leste’s main opposition party demanded on Monday that authorities investigate the alleged involvement of Prince Group members in the country, following Australian media reports, and present results from online fraud investigations.
"We urge the continuation of investigations based on information from the OCCRP (Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project) and The Guardian Australia, to ensure Timor-Leste becomes free of transnational organised crime and political influences harmful to its economy and international reputation," said Florentino Ximenes "Sinarai", an MP for the Revolutionary Front for an Independent East Timor (Fretilin).
He also urged authorities to "present transparent results of investigations related to online gambling, cyber fraud, suspicious financial transactions and counterfeit money circulation".
Two weeks ago, a report by The Guardian Australia and the OCCRP revealed alleged links between prominent criminal figures and a luxury development in Dili. The report highlighted the connection between Timor-Leste’s president, José Ramos-Horta, and the philanthropic AB Foundation and, through that, to members of the Prince Group.
International authorities have accused Prince Group’s chair, Chen Zhi, and related individuals of involvement in online fraud, money laundering, and human trafficking.
"According to the report, the president received $500,000 [€426,000] from the Ireland-based AB Foundation, which has links to companies and individuals the US Treasury Department sanctioned for involvement in Cambodia’s Prince Group business activities," the Fretilin MP said.
In a statement responding to the article, the president said he would continue to "welcome investors interested in coming to Timor-Leste" and talk to everyone.
"However, if evidence convinces me an investor is part of an organised crime network, the government and I will act immediately to stop it," he said.
The Fretilin MP questioned why the president, with many domestic responsibilities, would advise a foundation linked to transnational crime networks.
"The constitution is clear regarding the incompatibility of the president's roles. Article 78 states that the president cannot hold any other political office or public function, nor perform private activities," “Sinarai” said.
He also expressed concern regarding the "charity" model used, stating such practices could disguise bribes or undue payments.
Fretilin also questioned how the company obtained registration from SERVE (the state service for business registration and legalisation) to operate in Timor-Leste and how it obtained coastal land in Tasi Tolu for the project.
MSE/LYT // AYLS
Lusa
