SETBACK FOR VIETMINH

Press, Volume XC, Issue 27405, 19 July 1954, Page 9

SETBACK FOR VIETMINH

French Gains In Delta (N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) (Rec. 10.30 p.m.) HANOI, July 17. Ten thousand French Union troops heavily supported by tanks have pushed back strong Vietminh forces menacing Hanoi in twin- thrusts northeast and north-west of the city, the French High Command announced today. In one thrust 5000 French Union troops chased the Vietminh back across the northern rim of the Red river delta. Two armoured columns converging on the retreating Vietminh rebels met yesterday at Pineapple Pass, midway between Phu Lang Thuong and Luc Nam, about 45 miles north-east of Hanoi. They reoccupied Camp Erulin seized by the rebels 48 hours earlier after a four-day siege. North-west of Hanoi a further 5000 troops continued to drive back Vietminh troops who had infiltrated into the French defence line south of Sontay. There was little resistance. At the extreme north-western tip of the French defences there was a violent battle yesterday when the rebels ambushed French patrols at Kwong Canh, 25 miles north-west of Hanoi. French tanks joined in the battle, and 22 Vietminh were killed, tne High Command said.