IN MADAGASCAR

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 86, Issue 227, 26 September 1942, Page 5

IN MADAGASCAR

BRITISH TROOPS CHEERED IN CAPITAL UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER OF FRENCH GARRISON (B" Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright) London, Sept. 24. The occupation of Antananarivo the capital of Madagascar, has been officially confirmed by the G.O.C. East Africa. East African troops entered the capital yesterday afternoon, supported by South African armoured cars and British artillery. The whole population cheered them as they entered, and all is quiet and peaceful. General Smuts has congratulated the G.O.C. and has expressed South Africa’s pride at her share in the notable exploit. Before the troops entered, the last French garrisons west of the city surrendered unconditionally. It is announced that Antalaha, on the north-east coast, was occupied early yesterday morning. PROCLAMATION ISSUED OFFICIAL APPEAL TO THE PUBLIC London. Sept. 24. Instead of the usual Vichy French communique from Antananarivo radio at mid-day to-day, a British staff officer came on the air and read the French translation of a proclamation by General Sir William Platt, the main points of which were as follows : (1) A military jurisdiction has been established; (2) the G.O.C. assumes I the responsibility for law and order; (3) officials of local bodies must remain at their posts, subject to the G.O.C.’s instructions; (4) military courts will deal with specified crimes; (5) the local civil jurisdiction is to continue; but it is temporarily suspended; (6) the G.O.C. appeals to everyone to maintain normal life, without fear; (7) the French flag is to fly everywhere where it was normally flown. The officer appealed to the public to obey all orders from British and French officials.