The tiny nation became the scene of fierce street fights generated by the violent strike of former soldiers calling for their jobs being reinstated. Clashes between the army and the dismissed soldiers have occurred all around the capital, Dili and have resulted in buildings and businesses being set ablaze.
According to military sources and a spokesman for the ex-soldiers, Letnan Gastao Salsinha, two former soldiers and an army captain have died since late Wednesday, while 14 former soldiers have been severely injured. This brings the total death toll to five people.
The recent upsurge of violence has prompted the East Timorese government to call for foreign troops in an effort to control the clashes and stabilize the situation all through the country. Just like they promised previously, Australia and New Zealand have sent troops on Thursday to join the governmental forces.
According to Australian Prime Minister John Howard, around 150 commandos are expected to arrive late today in order to assure security in and around the nation's international airport's perimeter.
Moreover, Brendan Nelson, the Australian Defense Minister stated that Australia has also offered 1,000 to 1,300 troops, three ships, helicopters and armored personnel carriers. Peacekeeping forces and 60 police forces and troops will be sent by New Zealand as well and are to arrive in Dili late today.
Foreign Minister Jose Ramos Horta added that troops from Malaysia and Portugal have also been called to provide assistance.
The United States embassy has already started to evacuate non-important staff.
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