6 November 2007

A company of New Zealand infantry soldiers is helping communities in the eastern districts of Timor- Leste. The troops have been particularly successful in their efforts to help the key towns of Baucau and Lospalos. The New Zealanders, from B Company 2/1 Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment, are working as Kiwi Company, part of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) in Timor-Leste.

The troops were deployed to Timor-Leste to assist the United Nations Police (UNPOL) and the East- Timorese Army to enhance conditions of security and stability. The New Zealanders have been widely accepted by the local people of Baucau and Lospalos, and are popular for their professional and caring attitude.

The Kiwis spent the first three and a half months of their deployment conducting security operations in Dili, but were redeployed to the eastern districts in September following the upsurge in violence there in August.

In Baucau, the New Zealanders help community security by conducting regular patrols through the towns and surrounding villages. They conduct foot patrols in local markets, town streets and sporting venues. Vehicle mounted patrols also add to the New Zealand presence, and ensure that all locals can see security forces working to maintain a stable environment.

In Lospalos, New Zealand troops work as a team with the East Timorese Army to ensure security and stability. The New Zealanders also conduct regular meetings with UNPOL and key personnel in the East Timorese Army with a view to eventually handing over fully to local law enforcement agencies. This, combined with their caring attitude towards local people, ensures the New Zealanders are always well received.

Through their rigorous activity schedule, and by taking the time to play with children and share some sporting activities with the locals, Kiwi Company works to promote both goodwill and safety in the eastern districts of Timor-Leste. The New Zealanders’ love of basketball, volleyball and soccer, and their willingness to share a game with the local people, continues to help establish ISF rapport and reputation throughout Baucau and Lospalos.

These activities ensure that the community has complete faith in their law enforcement capability. The New Zealand troops’ presence also contributes to the confidence that all people in Baucau and Lospalos can go about their daily business and lives without fear.

The soldiers from Kiwi Company will rotate home at the end of their six-month deployment to East Timor in December.

There are about 170 New Zealand Defence Force personnel and 850 Australian Defence Force personnel deployed to Timor Leste as part of the International Stabilisation Force. The International Stabilisation Force’s job is to help the United Nations police and the Government of Timor-Leste provide a safe and secure environment across the country.

The New Zealand contingent in Timor Leste also includes a detachment from No.3 Squadron of the Royal New Zealand Air Force which with its Iroquois helicopters is providing critical airlift support to the International Stabilisation Force.

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