The Wire

Tensions have continued to mount in East Timor, following rioting last weekend by hundreds of rebel soldiers who were sacked from the Timorese Army. Thousands of people have left their homes in Dili to seek refuge in nearby monasteries or fled to their traditional villages in the mountains, many saying they are too afraid to return to their homes. Today, Prime Minister, John Howard announced that Australia would consider sending troops if asked by the East Timorese government. Head of International aid and development group Caritas in Dili, Jay Mahewsaran spoke to Juanita Hanna about the situation.