Alfredo's legal status still unclear

*Suara Timor Loro Sa'e, June 7, 2007 Translated from Tetun
Director of the Baucau Commission for Justice and Peace, Fr Martinho da
Silva Gusmao has called on the state to clarify the legal status of
fugitive ex-Military Police Commander, Major Alfredo Reinado.

He said the state should say whether Alfredo is a deserted soldier, a
criminal or political criminal.

He said this must be done before any dialogue with Alfredo is held.

Martinho was speaking to journalists recently from the offices of
National Electoral Commission (CNE).

Alfredo and his men deserted barracks in May last year. They have been
on run after Australian forces raided their hideout in the southern town
of Same in March, killing five of Alfredo's men.

The Australian forces undertook the operation on President Xanana's
authorization, following Alfredo's raid on two Border Police Units in
February, in which he seized 18 firearms.