New Zealand Defence Force

Te Ope Kaatua O Aotearoa

Media Release
28 August 2006

NZDF Troops to Return from Timor

Forty four New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel will this week return home from a successful tour of duty in Timor Leste.

Military police, cooks and infantry soldiers will be among the group returning to New Zealand on Thursday 31 August.

The recently arrived international police forces, including a contingent from New Zealand, have now assumed responsibility for enforcing law and order in Dili.

Around one hundred and sixty NZDF personnel will remain in Dili to provide support and backup to police when required. The NZDF will maintain a presence in Timor Leste for as long as necessary.

A company sized group from Burnham Military Camp deployed to Dili in late May. They were reinforced by support and logistics personnel as a part of the coalition force to assist with security.

The presence of the coalition force on the streets has made a significant contribution to stability in the region, says Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Rear Admiral Jack Steer.

“As soon as the contingent arrived in Timor they were involved in patrolling the streets and providing security for the people of Timor Leste. They were well trained for this mission and should be proud of what they have achieved.”

“I am very confident the NZDF elements remaining in Dili will continue the good work that has already made Dili a more stable and secure place for its people,” RA Steer said.

ENDS

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