PATROLS TRACK DOWN NATIVE MURDERERS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18008, 19 November 1926, Page 6

PATROLS TRACK DOWN NATIVE MURDERERS.

NEW BRITAIN TRIBES PUT UP RESISTANCE. By Telegraph.— Press Assn.—Copyright. Aue. and N.Z. Cable Association. (Received November 19, 11 am.) MELBOURNE, November 18. Advice has been received from Ra bau! that the punitive expedition at New Britain, sent with the object of arresting the murderers of three whites, succeeded in establishing defence posts. Two hostile natives were killed and one wounded. None of the punitive expedition were hurt. Several villages were advanced upon and found deserted. The expedition was attacked after it had occupied the first village. The natives were dispersed. It is- hoped when supplies have been replenished a patrol will l:>e able to break down any further resistance and will succeed in arresting the ringleaders of the attacks. The body of David Page, who was reported missing, was found by the expedition. A message on November 3 said:— Three men were killed as a result of a clash with natives at Xakanai on the north coast of New' Britain. The men's names were Collins, Fisher and Marlev. A fourth, named Page, is missing. It is supposed that the men had gone to Xakanai. which is 60 miles from Rabaul. to recruit native labour.