JAPANESE TAKE WOOSUNG FORTS

Hawke's Bay Herald-Tribune, Issue 193, 1 September 1937, Page 5

JAPANESE TAKE WOOSUNG FORTS

More Troops Land; Way is Open for a Major Offensive CHOLERA OUTBREAK IN FRENCH CONCESSION (Received 1, 1.30 p.m.)' SHANGHAI, Aug. 31. !With the Japanese eapture of the [Woosung fojrts a further IHass landing of Japanese troops is expected. The veil Of secrecy has now been lifted slightly, and it has become known that fierce resistance by the Chinese kept half of Ihe 50,000 Japanese reinforcements hemmed in troop-ships off [Woosung. The remainder landed at points along the coast from Liuho to "Woosung. They have been fighting desperately to egtablish and consolidate positions. Now that the Woosung forts have fallen, the way seems clear to major operations. The seeming tardiness of the Japanese advance thus far has been attributable to the desire to land more heavy artillery and aupplies before striking against the wavering line of Chinese troops Which is cOnstantly harassing them. The Japanese crossed Woosung Creek under the cover of a emokescreen and entered Woosung village after an hoitr's hand-to-hand fighting. Another detachment captured the railway station, also after severe fighting. As the result of the bombing of the American ship President Hoover British and American officials are considering a convoy system. The final decision will rest with the home Governments. Cholera has broken out in the French concession. The nuthoritie's are working feverishly to prevent its spread. 1 — _ ; -