Around Dili

Checkpoints in Dili

Police checkpoint in Dili

The police are running checkpoints around Dili in a bid to clamp down on the carrying of illegal weapons. Police are also checking for correct motorcycle and vehicle documents.

I was riding pillion on the back of a friend’s motorcycle on the airport road yesterday, near Dili Backpackers. We came to a checkpoint and the police were pulling over all motorcycles and asking to see documents. I was told that without the correct documentation, the police have the authority to confiscate a person’s motorbike.

My friend didn’t have the correct document, but he did manage to sneak off when the police weren’t looking. I certainly wouldn’t recommend taking such action. The checkpoints are there for a purpose, but if people don’t have the correct documentation and a license, I wonder if they would do a quick U-turn and find another route.

According to a mailout by the US Embassy, the following checkpoints have been installed around Dili and are, supposedly, in operation from 8 pm to 10 pm and from 2 am to 5 am. We came across a checkpoint in the afternoon and so perhaps the times are actually 8 am to 10 am and 2 pm to 5 pm.

1. Pantai Kelapa intersection (in front of the Indonesian food restaurant)

2. Residence of the American Embassy (Management Officer): At Bidau Santana intersection

3. City Cafe Restaurant: location at ANZ intersection

4. Government Palace location at old Post office

5. Audian in front of TOP ONE (Residence of the Secretary of State for security)

6. Aitarak Laran intersection (in front of the Pertamina, Micro Finance office)

7. Kolmera intersection (Road to Hotel Timor and Government Palace)