IN MANCHURIA

Hokitika Guardian, 25 January 1932, Page 6

IN MANCHURIA

A TENSE SITUATION. WAR DECLARATION EXPECTED. (United Press Association.—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright.) SHANGHAI, January 24. An .atmosphere of the gravest tension prevails hero to-day, as the Japanese are making preparation* to occupy the native districts, failing a satisfactory reply to demands from the Chinese. I lie arrival of additional warships, th landing of marines and general military activity in the wayside districts indicates that Japanese feeling is determined on a policy of force 'to obtain redress toi the recent anti-Nipponese activities and attack s oii Nationals. The Japanese Naval Commander here unhesitatingly stated that armed forces would occupy the surrounding native districts, arsenal, and Government buildings and retain possession until satisfaction ‘ was obtained. British and French military authorities are watching the situation with anxiety. The Nanking Government is undecided what to do. A declaration of war is considered impracticable, owing to the lack of sufficient armed forces. A decision is expected momentarily and it is believed it will be along the lines that the Chinese me pr-pared to pimjsh those responsible Tor the attack on Japanese priests, but is; unable to agree ito a dissolution of anti-Japanese v associations. It is regarded a-s certain that the reply will be unsatisfactory, compelling the Japanese to resort to force. AUSTRIAN KILLED. BY CHINESE 'SENTRY. SHANGHAI, January 24. Doctor Albert Porges, an Austrian, was motoring on a Chinese road outs'uL Shanghai, when he was challenged b* a Chinese sentry who was not satisfied that the car stopped quickly enough. He fifed and killed Porges but a lady companion was uninjured. AN EXPLOSION. WHEN REMOVING EXPLOSIVES. SHANGHAI, .January 24. There was a violent explosion in the vicinity of the Chinese arsenal in me afternoon. The roar was heard for miles. Widespread window damage was caused (throughout Shanghai. Between thirty and forty Chinese were killed. The incident is adding considerably to the tendencies of the prevailing situation. lit appears that Chinese were transferring explosives from a magazine to lighters in consequence of the Jap invasion, when the exposjon occurred.