Timor-Leste unrest

This item appears on page 23 of the April 2008 issue.

In Timor-Leste, on Feb. 11, 2008, armed rebels attempted to assassinate President José Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao. The president was shot at his home and evacuated to Australia for medical treatment, and the prime minister was unharmed.

The potential for violent civil unrest persists, and foreigners may be specifically targeted.

In addition, criminals have been known to operate illegal checkpoints for taxis and minibuses in some areas of Dili. Travelers are advised against using taxis or minibuses for transportation and to check the status of flights before traveling to the airport.