LAMPEDUSA ISLAND

Dominion, Volume 36, Issue 218, 10 June 1943, Page 5

LAMPEDUSA ISLAND

Unconfirmed Axis Report

LONDON, June 8. No confirmation has been given in London of an attempt by British forces to land on Lampedusa Island, midway between Tunisia and Malta, which was reported by the enemy. An Italian communique stated that the attempted landing was promptly repulsed by the defence, which sank several enemy naval vessels. Rome radio says: “Every man who reached the shore was wiped out. This attempt brought a considerable British force- and a very small Italian garrison face to face. The attempt proves that, in spite of the external appearance of the situation, which seemed dramatic, the Italians were animated by the firmest will to fight.” ' 1 Berlin radio says that military experts do not doubt that this was a serious landing attempt by a party of five companies of well-trained troops, equipped with modern automatic weapons. The test ended brilliantly for the Italians,

OBJECT OF ATTACK (Received June 9, 10.50 p.m.) LONDON, June 8.

Paris radio said it is reported from Berlin that the object of the Allied commando raid on Lampedusa Island was to test the preparedness of the defences and the capability of the Italian soldier to defend himself. It is considered possible that a serious attempt will be made to land on Pantellaria, the radio added.