CONFIDENCE SEEN IN CAIRO

Dominion, Volume 34, Issue 179, 26 April 1941, Page 11

CONFIDENCE SEEN IN CAIRO

Situation In Libya STRENGTH OF ENEMY’S FORCES

(British Official Wireless aud Press Assn.)

(Received April 25, 8.20 p.m.) LONDON, April 24.

A Cairo communique states: "In Libya vigorous activities by our patrols has continued in the areas of Tobruk and Solium."

A message from Vichy states that Germany and Italy are believed to have an army of 200,000 in Libya, including two armoured divisions, and also 1200 planes, according to the official French news agency. The German force originally comprised about 60,000 men, but con - siderable reinforcements are reported to have arrived by air, with tanks and transport vehicles sent by sea. LONDON, April 23. A good deal of offensive action on a small scale is going on around Solium, where the general initiative is in British hands. The British are also taking the initiative against the Axis forces from Tobruk. “Mr. Ohurchill’s statement that there is no uneasiness regarding Libya is echoed in military circles here,” says the Cairo correspondent of “The Times.” “Military authorities view the situation optimistically, and regard future developments with complete confidence.

“It is believed that the main body, of the Italian and German forces in Libya is far behind the advanced patrols. Both the main force and the patrols are finding the going most difficult. The Germans intended to supply and reinforce their troops by air, but the dashing attacks by the R.A.F. have disrupted the German air communications.

Today’s communique in Cairo states: “During the night of April 21-22 Australian troops carried out two highly successful raids at Tobruk. Seventeen Italian officers and 430 other ranks were captured, while our own casualties were slight. One enemy field gun was destroyed in the Solium area. Our patrols and artillery are continuing their offensive activities.”