IN BURMA

Hokitika Guardian, 30 December 1930, Page 6

IN BURMA

RAIDS BY REBELS. I MANY CASUALTIES AMONG POLICE. , United Press Association. —By Electrio Telegraph—Copyright). CALCUTTA, December 27. Grave developments followed the outbreak ol rioting in the lhaiiawaddy district in Burma, and news reaching Rangoon proves that the insurgents have become daring. Mi H. Fields-Clarke. a forest engineer, was murdered by rebels, who attacked his bungalow and burned it. , A company of the Buffs Regiment ha S been rushed from Rangoon to join the Indian infantry and military police. The insurgents were driven into the jungle alter a stubborn fight. The rebels, who are well armed, are adopting guerilla warfare, rendering the task of the troops more difficult. Captain Rust, who led the police in a clash with Burmese rebels, was injured. A military police post at Yodaik was also attacked, but the rebels were repulsed. A police officer and another official are missing. The engagement at lusen is said to have cost the police more casualties. Further details reveal that the revolt was organised on a large scale. The rebels, over 1900 strong, were dressed in a dark uniform with a blue shirt with a white cross. They were well armed and showed evidence of discipline in their clashes with the troops and the police. They carried out murders with the greatest ferocity. Their headquarters are believed to be in the heart of the jungle. It- is estimated that the rebels lost 1200 killed and wounded. The cause of the revolt is uncertain hut it is suggested that the rebels are hands of workless, who are out of work on account of the low price of rice. 1+ is thought that they are out for loot A full battalion of the Burma Rifle? lias been sent to Tharrwaddy, where dissatisfaction is prevalent. Severn’ towns and villages have formed civi 1 guards to assist the military and tin police. The relinks are using motorbuses to convey the men to the placeattacked.