AIRMEN CAPTIVES.

Grey River Argus, 24 August 1928, Page 5

AIRMEN CAPTIVES.

MOORS ASK RANSOM. French Government’s Quandary. (Received August 23 ai 7.10 p.m.) (Times Cable.) LONDON. August 22. The Paris \ correspondent of the Times reports there is grave anxiety 'regarding the French airmen, Reine and Serre, whom the Moors have been holding for ransom since they were forced to land at Rio de L’Oro, in North Africa, early in July, while en route to South America. The situation is complicated by the fact of a powerful tribe threatening to wipe out the tribe which, has captured the airmen unless they secure the release of Moorish prisoners who arc now in French hands, besides a high ransom. A French official visited Rio De L’Oro, but h e did not secure, the airmen’s, release. owing to the French Government, so it is reported, having refused an exchange of prisoners. A relief expedition is impossible, owing to Rio De L’Oro being situated in the Spanish zone of Africa. The airmen have sent letters to their families detailing their pitiable- condition. They state that they are unable to wash and are covered with vermin. Serves’ wife lias written an indignant letter to the newspapers, protesting against t!i e Government’s attitude in leaving the airmen to their fate, while it waits for the floors’ cupidity t 0 abate, and’ she demands the release. of the prisoners by the payment of a ransom.