LOFOTEN COUP

Dominion, Volume 34, Issue 139, 8 March 1941, Page 12

LOFOTEN COUP

Wide Repercussion In

Norway

ANTI-NAZI ACTIVITIES

LONDON, March 6.

The first result of the British naval raid on the Lofoten Islands has been a widespread increase in loyalist activities in Norway. A message from Oslo said the raid caused a sensation throughout Norway. It was directed against the town of Svolvor by destroyers and torpedo-boats.

Further details from the Admiralty of the raid state that it developed early on Tuesday morning. The' German shipping and shipping under German control were dealt with by our light forces. Meanwhile, Norwegian marines lind British troops landed. The ships sunk comprised nine German merchant vessels and one Germancontrolled Norwegian merchant ship, and also a German armed trawler.

Having achieved all their objects, the Allied forces withdrew, bringing with them 215 German prisoners and 10 “quislings,” in addition to the Norwegian patriots who are anxious to join their countrymen in fighting for the cause of freedom.

Opportunity was taken to supply, for the -benefit of the local population, consignments of foodstuffs, soap, cigarettes, clothing and other comforts, of which the Norwegian population has been robbed since the German occupation. The removal of the Germans and “quislings” made possible the supply of these stores to the Norwegian population without danger of their being diverted to enemy use.

It is worthy of note, rhe Admiralty adds, that the German statements issued about the raid stressed the complete’ surprise which was achieved by the Allied forces in this successful operation. According to a news agency message, a discussion is taking place between the Norwegian and British authorities in London about what should be done with the "quislings” who were captured. The death penalty does not exist in Norwegian law except for certain military offences, and it is reported that the Norwegian Government in London is still considering what legal ruling should be made.