SHOTS TO KILL

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 77, Issue 109, 10 May 1934, Page 5

SHOTS TO KILL

GOVERNOR OF BENGAL ATTEMPT AT DARJEELING SEVERAL NATIVES ARRESTED. [British Official Wireless.) RUGBY, May 8. An unsuccessful attempt to murder the Governor of Bengal, Sir John Anderson, was made on the racecourse at Darjeeling this afternoon. Two Bea galis, armed with revolvers, fired on the Governor at close range, but fortunately missed. One lady spectator was shot through the ankle, but no other casualties occurred. Both of the Governor’s assailants were arrested, as also were five other Bengalis believed to belong to the same gang. One suspect is still at large. It is understood that Sir John was seated in the Governor's box, in company with his only daughter, when the attack took place. The Secretary for India (Sir Samuel Hoare) has sent him the following telegram: “Deeply regret to hear of attempt on your life, and congratulate you most sincerely on your happy escape.” There were amazing scenes on the racecourse after the outrage, European and Indian spectators forming a protective cordon around the Governor, while guards and others grappled with his assailants. Sir John Anderson was uot perturbed and requested the racing to continue. He remained till the end and departed amid rousing cheers. The Governor had a miraculous escape. Several shots were fired at close range. The police later searched houses and arrested many youths on suspicion of being connected with the crime. By a coincidence the Indian Government yesterday announced awards for bravery—tho King’s Medal to M. Cleary, police superintendent at Chittagong, as a result of the Terrorist attack at the cricket match on January 11, and other awards to Major D. Bret: and Captain Peedes.