The United Nations says that some of the tens of thousands of people forced to flee their homes by the violence from pro-Jakarta militias in East Timor are dying of malnutrition and disease.

A BBC correspondent in the region says UN staff still in the East Timorese capital, Dili, have reported a number of deaths among refugees sheltering in mountainous areas.

They're said to be facing shortages of food and fresh water, and there are numerous cases of dehydration and diarrhoea.

It's hoped a UN aid flight may be given clearance to drop food and medicines.