THE GERMAN ESCAPEES.

Hokitika Guardian, 19 December 1917, Page 3

THE GERMAN ESCAPEES.

[per press association coPTßiam.] COURT OF ENQUIRY. AUCKLAND, This' Day. Continuing hi s evidence in regards to the escape of the German prisoners Turner said when the Seeadlers arrived at Motiuihi he received instructions that greater preca’ustions were necessary in respect to these two prisoners. When the Minister of Defence expressed concern about the guard witness stated in consequence of a conversation with General Robin in July alteration was asked from the military police to reduce the cost of maintenance Witness subsequently had an interview with General Robin and under instructions he was questioned about the launch “Pearl,” and as far as he remembered he explained ho was using two German prisoners as engineers and deck hand as none of witnesses detachment were capable ol working the launch . "Witness informed General Robin that j one visitor to the prisoners was a wife who had obtained a pass from high authority. He did not consider there was any danger of visits from wives of prisoners. After he returned to the island lie received a secret letter from Major Price warning him thait an attempt would be made to assist prisoners to escape. Witness informed Major Price that bis detachment was not strong' enough to resist a landing and to guard the 1 prisoners as well. Major Price stated that launches would patrol the island and guard the prisoners. j Witness took; special precautions to i guard the prisoners and ammunition ‘ He informed headquarters that he required reinforcements to continue this. He could not remember what reply he f had received, but he put on extra | armed men from 11 1 p.m. till daylight.