INCREASED ACTIVITY IN LIBYA

Southland Times, Issue 24682, 2 March 1942, Page 5

INCREASED ACTIVITY IN LIBYA

(8.0.W.) RUGBY, February 28. _ Though large scale operations in Libya have not yet been renewed it appears from a Cairo headquarters communique that activity has been increased. The communique states that because of improved visibility patrol activity on both sides was on a much wider scale on Friday. During the day our columns, supported by aircraft, shelled and dispersed strong enemy patrols, which included tanks in at least one case.

British troops rejoining the lines around Gazala report that the Germans are using a number of captured British tanks. Those who returned estimate that 35 per cent, of the Axis desert transport is French. A Royal Air Force Middle East communique reports that aerial activity in Cyrenaica on Friday was on an increased scale. Fighter and bomber aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force, the South African Air Force and the Royal Air Force were in action. A formation of enemy aircraft was intercepted over Tobruk and a Messerschmitt 109 shot down. Other German fighters were severely damaged. In the Mekili area our fighters attacked motor transport concentrations and inflicted casualties on the enemy. Two enemy pilots, who crashed behind our lines, were taken prisoner. Tripoli was successfully raided' on Thursday night. A direct hit was obtained on one vessel, which was set on fire. Half an hour later a violent explosion occurred followed by a number of small explosions. Bombs also burst in the harbour area and on the moles. Benghazi harbour was also attacked.

On Friday our fighters intercepted and damaged a number of enemy aircraft during raids on Malta where some damage was caused but casualties were slight. Six of our aircraft are missing from these operations.