The home confinement will run from 27 August to at least 23:59 on 2 September, according to a council statement.

Timor-Leste reported 532 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, including 298 new infections in Dili.

The confinement applies to “all persons residing or presently in the Municipality of Dili who must remain in their homes or in their temporary accommodation, including reception centres,” a statement said.

Exceptions include movement “for reasons of health, work, access to essential goods and services and to receive the vaccine against COVID-19.”

During the period, “the circulation of public transport in the entire area of ​​the Municipality of Dili is prohibited” and “religious celebrations are also suspended and the organisation and performance of funeral ceremonies involving the participation of more than ten people is prohibited.”

All commercial, industrial, craft or service establishments are closed to the public, with the exception of establishments for the sale of food and other essential goods, electricity, telecommunications, medical care, pharmacies, health posts, fuel and financial institutions.

Under the approved measures, “restaurants can provide take-away or home delivery meals” and street vendors of food and other basic necessities are allowed to operate. 

The municipal markets of Manleuana and Taibessi  will remain open between 6 am and 6 pm.

General home confinement is also implemented for people living in administrative Posts of Ermera and Railaco, in the Municipality of Ermera, until 23:59 on the 1st of September.