Speaking on Wednesday from the Ministry of Interior, Henrique da Costa the Operational Commander, said he had received direct orders from Rui Maria de Araújo to give national police the power to intervene and stamp out uncivil behaviour in public places.

 The announcement comes after 36 houses were destroyed and two people left injured on Friday when rival supporters from Democratic Party and FRETILIN party convened at an election rally in RaiKotu, Tera Santa.

 Costa said police would also arrest any motorbike rider carrying two or more passengers, riding with a shortened, illegal, exhaust pipe or not having current license plate.

 The presidential election campaign will run from 3-17 March.