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UNODC Supports the Combating of Illicit Trafficking Across the Land Border between the Republic of Indonesia and the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste



Jakarta (Indonesia), 27 August 2014 - The border between Indonesia and Timor Leste is vulnerable to migrant smuggling, human trafficking, drug trafficking and wildlife and timber trafficking. Since the withdrawal of UN peacekeeping forces in Timor-Leste and the subsequent handover from UN Police to the National Police of East Timor in 2012, Timor-Leste's border patrol unit has had a broad and challenging task.

Arrests in the past two years indicate that drug trafficking occurs across the land border from Timor-Leste into Indonesia. Timorese officials have identified that the majority of drugs that make their way to Indonesia are methamphetamines and heroin. Although cooperation between Timor-Leste and Indonesia has improved in their efforts to combat drug trafficking, arrests that have been made in the last few years are only a small achievement in dealing with a much deeper problem.

Crossing the land border at official border stations between Indonesia and Timor-Leste is not considered a realistic option for many people. Not only is it an expensive venture for many, but acquiring the necessary passports and visas can be a lengthy process. This leads many local people to opt for crossing at uncontrolled sections of the border, where their illegitimate status and fear of being caught makes them vulnerable to exploitation.

Similar issues have been addressed in the Greater Mekong Sub region with UNODC's initiative to establish the Border Liaison Office mechanism. The main task of the Border Liaison Office mechanism is to improve communication between border authorities. It encourages regular meetings with national authorities and their cross-border counterparts. Necessary requirements for improved border control include investments in infrastructure, training and the conduct of personnel.

On August 27, 2014, UNODC will hold a Border Liaison Office conference in Dili, Timor Leste. Attendees include UNODC's Country Manager, Troels Vester, the US and Australian Embassies, the National Police of East Timor, Indonesian National Police and representatives from Customs and Immigration from Indonesia and Timor Leste. The focus of the conference is to consider establishing Border Liaison Offices by the Indonesian and Timor Leste authorities. Additionally, the conference will ensure that all parties have a basic understanding of the Border Liaison Office mechanism system.

The conference will be followed by a joint study tour for Indonesian and Timor Leste authorities to observe the current best practice of Border Liaison Offices in the Greater Mekong Sub region.

The decision regarding the establishment of Border Liaison Offices between the two countries is expected late 2014.