EMDEN AT CAPETOWN

Otago Witness, Issue 3802, 25 January 1927, Page 32

EMDEN AT CAPETOWN

VESSEL RUSHED BY VISITORS. HOSE TURNED ON CROWD. CAPETOWN, January 17. An extraordinary incident in connection with the visit of the German cruiser Emden occurred when the ship was thrown open to visitors. An enormous crowd assembled on the wharf, and the gangways were congested. So great was the push that the gang-* ways were withdrawn. The crowd on the wharf increased. Suddenly a German sailor on board, instructed by an officer, turned a hose on the crowd. This was done several times. Many ladies in summer hats and frocks were drenched, and in the stampede which followed some fainted. Much indignation was expressed, but, on the other hand, some spectators maintain that the ship’s action averted a tragedy by preventing an attempt to rush the ship. Captain Foerster, of the Emden, states that the use of the hose on the crowd averted one of the biggest disasters known in this country. It was only turned on after repeated applications by the police, who were unable to prevent the crowd from massing on the wharf, in imminent danger of being pushed over. The mayor issued a statement warmly commending the prompt action of the Emden officers, which meant the saving of many lives. THE HOSEPIPE INCIDENT. CAPE TOWN, January 1&. A warm controversy continues over-the Emden incident. Many letters of pro l test have been published, but the general opinion is that the Emden’s action was fully justified. It is now stated that the police did not request the use of the hose, but they admit that the crowd was unmanageable. The commander, in an interview, expresses great regret, but states that it was the only way of preventing a terrible tragedy. He acknowledges the extremely cordial reception in Capetown. ■lt was without a single unpleasant incident.