(1 Sep 1999) Natural Sound
Hundreds of anti-independence militiamen clashed with pro-independence supporters on Wednesday, close to the U-N headquarters in East Timor's capital of Dili.
The fighting blocked the streets outside the U-N compound, trapping people inside.
A U-N security officer confirmed that nearly two hundred people - including U-N officials and journalists - have taken shelter in an auditorium within the compound.
Pro-independence supporters, armed with rocks and machetes, clashed with rival anti-separatist group on the streets just outside of U-N headquarters in Dili.
It was the most serious confrontation between the two groups since last Monday's polling day.
Earlier pledges by both sides to lay down weapons turned out to be empty promises, as chaos once again took over the Dili streets.
One pro-independence supporter found himself singled out by the militia.
Once down, it didn't take long for other militia members to descend upon him with machetes and knives.
The pro-independence groups were virtually outgunned, though one member made his own firearm.
It seemed ineffective against the rifles available to the militia.
At sunset, smoke could be seen just outside of the U-N compound.
A nearby house was set afire and cars driving into the compound were shot at.
One taxi carrying journalists to the scene was fired on and its rear window was smashed.
Around one hundred and fifty people are trapped inside the U-N compound, seeking shelter in an auditorium within the complex.
U-N officials say no one broke into the compound.
The violence followed Monday's relatively peaceful referendum on independence.
Ballot counting is still under way but the success of Monday's ballot turnout suggests that East Timor may have rejected Jakarta's autonomy proposal and chosen to break away from 24 years of Indonesian rule.
Earlier in Dili, hundreds of armed anti-independence militiamen gathered in the capital's streets, and at least one person was reported killed.
The outbreak raised fears that the territory could slide back into lawlessness as pro-Indonesia militias - sensing defeat - try frantically to take control of whatever they can.
The militias have accused the U-N of rigging the vote to encourage independence.
Indonesian security forces have been accused by the U-N of arming and supporting the militia - a charge the police have continually denied.
However, the swiftness with which the militia have been able to take control of roads and ports of transport does little to inspire confidence in the authorities.
Indonesia took over the former Portuguese colony in 1975, annexing the territory a year later.
Find out more about AP Archive: [ Ссылка ]
Twitter: [ Ссылка ]
Facebook: [ Ссылка ]
Instagram: [ Ссылка ]
You can license this story through AP Archive: [ Ссылка ]
