MOVE IN LIBYA

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 20659, 9 January 1942, Page 3

MOVE IN LIBYA

AN AXIS RETREAT BREAK FOR TRIPOLI? PRISONERS TOTAL 20,000 (Elec. Tel. Copyright—United Press Assn.) (Reed. Jan. 9, noon.) LONDON, Jan. 8. Reports from Cairo state that the Axis forces under General Rommel are moving out of Jedabaya, where they had taken up strong positions after their retreat from Benghazi. The withdrawal is being made under the cover of a severe sand storm. The retreating forces are being closely followed by British and South African regiments. General Rommel’s intentions are not yet clear, but it is thought that he may be attempting to get away along the coastal road to Tripoli. To-day’s Middle East communique states that, taking advantage of a heavy sandstorm which continues severely to restrict visibility, the enemy is withdrawing from Jedabaya covered by strong rearguards.

Our mobile columns of all arms are moving forward in pursuit over wide fronts. Progress, however, has been slow, owing partly to weather conditions and also to the use made by the enemy of extensive minefields. Shortly after midday yesterday, the Coldstream Guards and Scots Guards established contact with portions of the enemy rearguards about seven miles south-west of Jedabaya. Further south, the King’s Dragoon Guards and South African armoured fightingvehicles penetrated country, previously held by the enemy. Air Attacks Continued

In the Halfaya area, in spite of continuing dust storms, our air forces persistently and successfully attacked enemy positions throughout the day. It was announced to-day that since the Libyan campaign commenced in November, 20,000 Axis prisoners have been taken, including 5500 Germans. This number is not complete as other prisoners have yet to be counted. The Air Ministry announced that Royal Air Force and Free French bombers had been attacking Halfaya throughout the day at 15-minute intervals during the past three days, plastering defended posts, entrenchments and also masses of transport in the wadis. They have met practically no opposition from Axis fighters find only occasional “flak fire. „ , The air bombing of Halfaya was similar to that before the final storming of Bardia. Reuter’s special correspondent says Halfaya is also being shelled from the land and sea, every point of military value being pounded