CHINESE BANDITS.

Hokitika Guardian, 12 May 1923, Page 3

CHINESE BANDITS.

NEGOTIATIONS FOR. RELEASE. IL'STRALIAN ANI) N.Z. CABLE ASSOCIATION. PEKIN, May 10. The American Minister, Mr Sehurniiui states that tile Chincso authorities are doing everything in their power to assure the release of the captives through negotiation, il being felt that the use of force might endanger the lives of tho prisoners. Foreign Powers do not now contemplate the use of soldiers ; they are interested only in securing the release of their nationals. Mr Sehurman points out that while a continuation of bandit outrages m China might lie expected, China-, furthermore, ns a sovereign power, is expected to, and it is believed will, assure necessary protection ior foreigners. ,SHANGHAI. .May 10. Telegrams from I.inehong state that various agents working for the release of tli-e foreign prisoners are in communication with the bandits. Prospects for release are said to be favouraide. PEKIN. May 9. It is reported that the Government troops withdrew temporarily from the pursuit of the bandits because tbe latter threatened to kill tbe prisoners, and methods are now being considered to secure the release of captives. CHINESE GOVERNMENT EXPRESSES REGRET. (Received this dav at 9. La a.in.) PEKIN May 11. The Government has expressed to the British Minister its profound regret at the kidnapping outrage and promised their utmost efforts to obtain the release of the people captured. The military and civil governors have been instructed to secure the release of the captives. The Government is supplying funds for tho ransom if required. A meeting of various foreign organisations carried a resolution strongly denouncing tho outrage and promising their full support for the British authorities in any steps that are taken.