Timor-Leste Vulnerable to 'Infiltration by Foreign Organized Crime', President Warns The President of Timor-Leste, José Ramos-Horta, has sounded a warning over the country's vulnerability to infiltration by foreign organized crime, amid concerns over the spread of online scam centres. In a statement, Mr Ramos-Horta emphasized the need for the tiny nation to remain vigilant against the threat, saying: "We are a country that has been through a lot, and we cannot afford to be infiltrated by foreign organized crime." The comments come as Australian federal police confirmed they are working closely with Timor-Leste authorities to respond to the growing threat of online scam centres. According to officials, these centres are being used to facilitate a range of illicit activities, including money laundering and identity theft. The Australian federal police have reportedly been supporting Timor-Leste's law enforcement agencies in their efforts to disrupt and dismantle these scam centres. The collaboration is seen as a key step in combating the spread of organized crime in the region. Timor-Leste has been grappling with the rise of online scams in recent years, with many citizens falling victim to phishing and other cybercrime schemes. The country's fragile economy and lack of resources have made it an attractive target for organized crime groups seeking to exploit its vulnerabilities. The president's warning highlights the urgent need for Timor-Leste to strengthen its defences against organized crime. The country's government has acknowledged the threat and has pledged to take action to protect its citizens and businesses from the scourge of online scams. Meanwhile, the Australian federal police say they will continue to work closely with Timor-Leste authorities to combat the growing threat of organized crime in the region. The collaboration marks an important step in the fight against transnational crime in the Asia-Pacific and underscores the need for international cooperation in tackling this complex and evolving threat. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community will be watching closely to see how Timor-Leste responds to the threat of organized crime and whether its efforts to combat the scourge of online scams prove effective. Source: undefined. Visit the original source link below for the complete story.