CHINA COAST

Grey River Argus, 23 September 1944, Page 5

CHINA COAST

VAST JAPANESE FORTIFICATIONS (Rec. 11.40). CHUNGKING, Sept. 22. The Japanese are rapidly converting Swatow and other points on a 1200 miles coastal stretch from Hainan Island to Shanghai into powerful fortresses in anticipation of Allied oifensives, reports the Associated Press. It is reliably reported the Japanese are strengthening their garrisons, building new airfields, improving ola ones, developing harbour facilities, establishing strong anti-aircraft defences and constructing new military roads. Several divisions have been sent io reinforce these points. Japanese preparations are particularly noticeable southward of Shanghai and in the Hong Kong-Canton area. The China Central News says: General Chen Wunung, Commander of the 93rd Chinese Army, has been executed for failure to carry out instructions to defend Chunghsien stronghold. Chen is reported to have fled at the enemy’s approach. JAPS REACH KWEILIN (Rec. 12.10) NEW YORK, Sept. 22. Tokio radio claims that the Japanese have reached Wuchow, .a northeastern suburb of Kweilin. The main force of the city’s defenders are retreating in disorder south-westwards after destroying military establishments.