SOVIET RUSSIA.

Hokitika Guardian, 29 July 1926, Page 2

SOVIET RUSSIA.

f Australian & N.Z. Cable Association.]

REPORT ARREST OF SOVIET LEADERS. COPENHAGEN, July 28. The Berlin “Ske Tidende” publishes from Moscow a rumour that M. Zinovielf has been arrested and interned with a view of preventing his contact with his adherents and also that Sokolnikoffe. formerly Commissioner of Finance, has been imprisoned. He is accused of supporting Zinovieff against the Government, and, of being implicated in the death of Dzerjinsky on July 21st. It is recalled that the death of Dzerjinsky was followed by rumours, published in Berlin from Russia, that he died from poisoning after a speech. The cause is variously ascribed in Soviet quarters to cancer or heart failure.

RUSSIAN REPORTS. LONDON, .Jiffy 28. The “Daily Afail” Moscow correspondent says the reported arrest of Zino- ■ vieff and his'internment to prevent him from communicating with his supports, many of whom are imprisoned, including tlie former Finance Minister, Sokolnikov, who is likely to he shortly tried in connection with Dzezhinsky’s death, marks the climax of a startling revelation which is leaking out from Russia. Varying official accounts of Dzerzhinsky’s death have been published, some attributing it to cancer of the stomach and others to paralysis of the heart. It is now stated he died three hours alter making a fighting speech before the Central Communist Committee, which he bitterly attae' ed, the party malcontents threatening dire consequences of Chekas mailed first and hinting that prison torture chambers at present filled with bourgeoise. could easily he converted to hold rebellious leaders. Those most closely in touch with the inner circles believe someone on the platform dropped poison into a glass of water from which Dzerzhinsky sipped while attacking the clique, to which the supposed murderer belonged. Dzerzhinsky left the .meeting in the best of health hut began vomiting immediately he arrived home, dying in terrible agony. His bust words were: “It is finished, they have, done their business.”

Dzerzhinsky’s spies previously allegedly found evidence proving Zinovieff was the ring leader of a conspiracy to assassinate the principal Soviet leaders. who are now specially guarded. All their food is tasted befoie eating.