This Public Announcement is being issued to alert U.S. citizens to the continued need to take appropriate security precautions while traveling in East Timor. This supersedes the Public Announcement for East Timor of October 22, 2001 that expires March 31, 2002. This Public Announcement expires June 30, 2002.

American citizens traveling to East Timor should exercise caution, avoid large gatherings, and remain alert with regard to their personal security.

On August 30, 2001, East Timor held its first election since gaining independence from Indonesia in 1999. East Timor is under the authority of the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET) and will remain so until it becomes an independent nation on May 20, 2002. While violence erupted throughout East Timor after the United Nations-sponsored independence referendum in 1999, stability has been reestablished throughout the territory.

While the security situation has improved, East Timor has continued to experience problems with criminal activity, both violent and non-violent. Most of the crime occurs in the capital, Dili, with expatriates sometimes targeted by muggers and burglars. Americans are strongly encouraged to exercise caution, particularly at night. Additionally, travelers should avoid areas along the border between East and West Timor. Militia incursions have occurred in the western districts of East Timor, and travelers wishing to visit these areas are encouraged to consult UN authorities in Dili before departing. Travelers to East Timor should be aware that suitable accommodations outside of Dili are virtually non-existent.

Until East Timor becomes an independent nation and a fully-functioning consular section is established, all Americans resident or traveling in East Timor are encouraged to visit the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta's web site at www.usembassyjakarta.org to register and to obtain updated information on the security situation. Registration may also be completed at the Embassy in person or by fax (62-21-385-7189). The U.S. Embassy in Jakarta may be reached at tel. 62-21-3435-9000. The United States currently maintains a representative office in Dili, which can provide limited emergency services to American citizens. The U.S. representative office is located in the sea front Farol district of Dili, tel. (670) 390-313-205, fax (670) 390-313-206.