Díli, Sept. 18, 2025 (Lusa) - The Timorese police said on Thursday that they are working with international and local partners to continue identifying companies allegedly linked to online fraud schemes.

"We are working with our partners, both international and local, to remain alert and monitor situations in order to identify companies that are opening businesses in this area linked to online gambling and fraud schemes," said Interior Ministry spokesman João Belo dos Reis.

He was speaking at a press conference to update the security situation in the country.

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) warned last week about the proliferation of criminal networks in the enclave of Oecussi, in Timor-Leste, pointing out that recent investigations show they are operating in the region.

‘The police (PNTL) will not make it easy and will continue, together with its partners, to track online gambling scam activities in Timor-Leste,’ he said.

"As for our contribution in Oecusse, we have already begun, together with our partners, to carry out interventions and we will identify them within the region," said the spokesman of the ministry of the interior.

Superintendent João Belo dos Reis said that the operation in Oecussi was carried out thanks to good communication with partners, which made it possible to track the movements of groups considered to be organised and linked to fraud schemes.

He also asked the Timorese to be vigilant so as "not to become victims of these scams."

"All of us who use social media should think before we click. The phone we use can pose risks at any time. Anyone who uses social media must be careful before accessing anything," added the spokesperson.

DPYF/AYLS // AYLS

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