‘MARCHES OF DEATH’

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 79, 26 May 1944, Page 5

‘MARCHES OF DEATH’

TRAPPED JAPANESE TROOPS BRITISH AND DUTCH NEW GUINEA JUNGLE TRAILS LINED WITH BODIES Sydney, May 25. Japanese troops trapped in both British and Dutch New Guinea arc making “marches of death” in attempts to escape to Japanese-held territory. About 2000 from the Wcwak area arc reported to be trekking over the mountains towards Sarmi, a distance of 375 miles. The jungle trails are lined with bodies of enemy troops who have died from starvation or disease. In the llollandia area natives report that 100 Japanese, trying to make an overland escape, arrived at an inland village in a pitiful condition and clamoured for food. Many bodies have been found along the trails south of Lake Scntani. General Mac Arthur’s communique today says Japanese units are demoralised and scattering? and that “enemy soldiers frequently abandon their weapons in their efforts to escape jungle privations.” In the western Dutch New Guinea coastal sector bitter resistance is being met by American troops who have crossed the Tor river in their drive towards Maffin, one of two airfields on the mainland opposite Wadke Island (120 miles west of Hollandia). This partially constructed airstrip is 3i miles beyond the Tor river. Sawar, the second airfield at Maffin Bay. is a further 3£ miles beyond Maffin. The airstrip area was shelled by Allied destroyers on Monday pight. Japanese dead counted since the Americans landed in the Wadke IslandSarmi area nine days ago now total 908. SHARP PATROL CLASHES In British New Guinea, sharp patrol clashes have occurred 30 miles easf*of Aitape where the Americans landed on 22nd April. American outposts on the Dandriwar river were attacked on Monday. Allied bombers and fighters are continuing to strike against the Japanese trapped in this area and around Wewak.

At Manokwari, the important Japanese base on the south coast of Dutch New Guinea, a Liberator bombed and sank an 1800-ton cargo vessel. Despite adverse weather in that sector further attacks have been made on enemy bases on Kiak and Noemfoor Islands in Geelvink Bay.

The Japanese hit back when Liberators based on the Admiralty Islands attacked Truk in the Carolines with 84 tons of bombs. They sent up 40 interceptors and in a running fight lasting 90 minutes two enemy fighters were shot down with three more probably destroyed and others damaged. One Liberator was lost. Another 750 Japanese dead have been found by American patrols on Bougainville Island and the northern Solomons. —P.A. Special Australian Correspondent.