NOW ISOLATED OR CAPTURED

Dominion, Volume 35, Issue 52, 25 November 1941, Page 7

NOW ISOLATED OR CAPTURED

Frontier Positions Of Enemy

(British Official Wireless.) RUGBY - , November 23.

A Middle East war communique from Cairo issued today states: “The centre of gravity of the main tank battle between the British and German armoured forces now appears to be about Rezegh. Throughout the night the battle continued without cessation, and it was continuing this morning.

“Meanwhile New Zealand forces in the face of exceptional climatic difficulties continued yesterday their advance from the initial positions west of Sidi Omar. After rapidly captyring Sidi Azeiz and Capuzzo, these forces pushed on westward round the TrighCapuzzo road. By yesterday evening they had reached positions south of Gambut (30 miles north-west of Bardia), leaving a detachment to occupy Bardia, which was reported to be ciear of the enemy. “While these operations were proceeding Indian troops captured Sidi Omar and Nuovo, and were gradually extending the area of their penetration in the rear of the defensive positions held between Halfaya and Sidi Omar.

“Continuing their advance against opposition, the British forces from Tobruk have again captured many hundreds of prisoners, of which 50 per cent, are Germans. “Continuous air support was given by our air forces throughout the day. Low-flying bomber and fighter attacks were made on enemy tanks, armoured fighting vehicles and motor transport, and much damage was inflicted.”