THE AFGHAN WAR.

Oamaru Mail, Volume IV, Issue 1319, 18 September 1880, Page 2

THE AFGHAN WAR.

(SPECIAL TO MELBOURNE AGE). London, September 6. Further intelligence received concerning the victory obtained by Roberts over the Afghan army under Ayoub Khan at Arganda'o, near Candaliar, on the 2nd September, shows that the battle was a decisive one. The enemy gave way after the first onset, and were soon completely routed. The British loss was small, the total casualties amounting to only 230 killed and wounded. The Afghans suffered very heavily, the artillery causing havoc in their ranks, and in the night a large number were killed by the pursuing cavalry. The pursuit after Ayoub Khan, who has fled towards Herat, is maintained. September 7. Communication with Candaharhas been re-opened. The telegraph wires, which had been cut by the Afghans during the recent struggles, have been restored. General Phayre has arrived, and the city is reported as quiet. September 8. Intelligence received from Candahar states that the loss suffered by the Afghans in the battle of the 2nd inst. was fearfull}' heavy. Their casualties amounted to over 3000. The larger' portion of the loss was suffered in the pursuit. General Roberts having taken possession of the positions occupied by the forces of Ayoub Khan on the Argaudab river, has found it necessary to encamp there, and has thrown up entrenchments in order to hold the place strongly until the settlement of affairs in southern Afghanistan has been assured. General Roberts has despatched a strong column to Khushkinahud, a short distance along the Helmund river, in order to disperse any hostile natives. General Phayre, with the force under his command, is encamped at Korirjierak, a small town situated in the vicinity of Candahar. The natives exhibit great restlessness, and precautions are considered necessary.