RAPID CHANGE IN SITUATION.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXVI, Issue 7566, 12 May 1919, Page 5

RAPID CHANGE IN SITUATION.

AFGHANS MARCHING AGAINST

INDIA.

BRITISH TROOPS ON THE MOVE.

Australian-N.Z. Cable Association!)

Received May 11, 5.5 p.m

LONDON, May 9.

It is officially stated that the positir n in Afghanistan has changed with remarkable rapidity. Disaffection hae spread among the troops, who demanded vengeance for the late murdered Amir. Habibullah, despite the ostentatious unanimity with which he acted at the recent Durbar, executed dolonel Ali Raza and condemned Masrulla to imprisonment for life. It is now openly stated that innocent persons were punished, and that the real culprits escaped. Amanulla, fearing a rebellion, resolved on the, perilous measure of embarking on war against India, spreading false stories among the soldiery of troubles in the Punjab and depicting rich Bazars at the mercy of Afghan invaders.

The Viceroy sent a very strong express message to Amanulla conveying a stern warning, without success. :

Afghan troops are now arriving at various points on the border. British troops are already moving to allotted places of concentration. The attitude of the tribesmen at the moment is admirable. The Atridis remain staunch. The Mohmands told General Rooskeppel that they are prepared to fight on pur side. Much disunion is believed to exist at "Kabul. Amnulla is reported to have visited Nasrulla and Inayatulla in prison and offered them their liberty in return for their leading the army against India. Both refused. Nasrulla is now believed to have been poisoned in gaol.

Aeroplanes will probably play an important part in the fighting, The Afghan and British forced are rapidly nearing each other.