E Timor military, police join to hunt attackers
Analysts have expressed concern about the merger, saying there is no clear command structure outlined under the mandate. (AAP: Gary Ramage)
East Timor's police and military have joined forces in their efforts to catch the people who attacked the country's President and Prime Minister last week.
The move was announced in a national television address by Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao.
But analysts in East Timor have expressed concern about the merger, saying it could lead to a clouding of functions because there is no clear command structure outlined under the mandate.
President Jose Ramos-Horta is recovering in a Darwin hospital after he was shot several times during a clash with rebels at his Dili home a week ago.
Rebel leader Alfredo Reinado was killed, while Mr Gusmao escaped unharmed from a separate attack.
On Monday, East Timor's interim President, Fernando Lasama de Araujo, said he wants all those responsible for the attacks arrested and put before the courts in less than a month.
The police have issued 17 arrest warrants for those involved in the attacks.
Dual citizen released
Meanwhile a court in Dili has released the only person arrested so far in relation to last week's attacks.
Australian citizen Angela Pires was charged with conspiracy, but released after a preliminary hearing late last night.
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs says it is providing consular assistance to the East Timor-Australian dual citizen and her family in Australia.
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