MESOPOTAMIA.

Taranaki Daily News, 2 October 1917, Page 5

MESOPOTAMIA.

SUCCESSFUL BRITISH OFFENSIVE. A SEVERE BATTLE. MAIN POSITIONS CARRIED. LARGE CAPTURES OF MEN AND "■iyNS. Received Oct. 1, 10.10 p.m. London, Se.pt. 30. British Mesopotamia report: We attacked an advanced position at Mussaid, four miles eastward of Ramadil, on Friday, after occupying the Mushade ridge, and attacked the main positions in the region of Ramadil from the south-east. Meanwhile the cavn-lry moved wide round westward of the town, and after an allday severe battle carried the main positions, encircling Ramadil eastwards, south-eastwards, and southwards, two miles from the town. The cavalry completed the land cordon, the Euphrates running on the north side of the town The enemy attempted at night time to break out westward, but the cavalry headed them back.'

The attack was resumed at daybreak on Saturday, liy nine in the morning the enemy were surrendering everywhere. The captures include guns, arms, ammunition, much material, and several thousand prisoners, including -Ahmed Bey and staff. The enemy were entirely surprised, and practically the whole of Ramadil fell into our bands.

Tim troops displayed great gallantry, determination and endurance in difficult conditions. Another column from Bagdad on Thursday night encountered tftvairy. After a sharp skirmish we inflicted casualties.