ADVERSE WEATHER

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 87, Issue 272, 17 November 1943, Page 5

ADVERSE WEATHER

IN RABAUL AREA MOVEMENT OF JAP SHIPS CONTINUES

•Special Australian Correspondent—N.Z.P.A.) Recd. 8.30 p.m. Sydney, Nov. 16. i he movement of Japanese shipping in the Rabaul area continues, vata- • ijias patrolling sea-lanes to the norm oi this key enemy base have scored a direct hit with a 10091 b. bomb on a light cruiser. The bomb struck the alter part of the warship, penetrated and exploded inside it. A 10,000-ton merchantman was hit amidships with a 5001 b. bomb. Adverse weather and the convoy’s fighter protection prevented close observation of the damage, but it is believed that both the cruiser and the merchantman may be a total loss, mese mts were scored in week-end night attacks.

Lhe Japanese are apparently making some effort to continue to reinforce Rabaul. General MacArthur’s aircraft are maintaining a close watch u.er ine area and no movement of enemy shipping is allowed to pass unchallenged. ihe cruiser reported damaged in to-day’s Soutn-west Pacific communique was escorting two cargo vessels headed towards Rabaul ana was attacked 18 miles from the harbour.

The second convoy, including the 10,000-ton merchantman hit, comprised a large cargo vessel, two medium cargo vessels, a tanker and a number of smaller ships. It was located and attacked 50 miles from Rabaul. Four 5001 b. bombs were aimed at the large vessel, one striking amidships and rocking the vessel with a violent explosion.

Bad weather over the South-west Pacific has caused some diminution of Allied air activity in the area.