CRISIS IN MANCHURIA

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21530, 30 December 1931, Page 7

CRISIS IN MANCHURIA

JAPANESE ACTIVITIES ATTACK ON CHINCHOW EXPECTED. SHANGHAI, December 28. It is unofficially reported that Japanese military headquarters have already been established within 50 miles of Chinehow. The eyes of the entire Chinese nation are turned on Chinehow. Momentous developments are expected to follow its capture. The Japanese are seemingly determined to push the Chinese across' the Great Wall. It is reported that Chinese Buddhists telegraphed offering their services in a military capacity to the Government. It is estimated that there are 800,000 Buddhist monks throughout the country, and possibly 200,000 are fit for service. JAPANESE ADVANCING. FIGHTIING BREAKS OUT. • SHANGHAI, December 29. (Received Dec. 30, at 2 a.ra.) ■, tJH Chinese and Japanese at Panshan, in Southern Manchuria, to-day. The Japanese contend that action was necessary owing to the Chinese massing forces apparently with the intention of attacking Hsinminfu, though it is really believed that the Japanese intend to capture Kowpangtze as a preliminary to moving toward Chinehow. The Japanese, under General Tamon, began an offensive early this morning, engaging an armoured train in the vicinity of Panshan, which was ultimately completely destroyed by aeroplane bombing. It is reported that the fighting is generally proceeding in favour of the Japanese, but details are not available. '