COMMUNIST INFILTRATION INTO NEW GUINEA IS INCREASING

Wanganui Chronicle, 7 August 1950, Page 5

COMMUNIST INFILTRATION INTO NEW GUINEA IS INCREASING

Reports That Foreign Agents Are Preparing A Coup

SYDNEY, August 6 (Reed. 6 p.m.)—Reports of foreign infiltration into New Guinea are stated to be confirmed by “the highest possible source.” The Federal Government has been informed that Communist agents are preparing a coup in Papua and New Guinea

Observers recently in the territory have told officials that “a kscond Malaya” is ih the making and that foreign Communist agents, both native and white, have infiltrated Into New Guinea during the past six months.

Agents are said to be using native boats and trading luggers to reach New Guinea from territory controlled by a foreign Power. It is believed that natives have been specially trained as Communist agitators a'nd that their activities are linked with those of Communist agitators in Malaya.

A highly placed official says: “We are certain that these activities are part of a world-wide Communist plan to create disorder everywhere outside the iron curtain.” The Government has ordered an immediate overhaul of the defence and military installations to receive a task force from Australia in the event of trouble. It is understood the foreign Power

referred to is Indonesia. The Sydney “Truth” says: “There are reports ot Indonesian infiltration into Dutch New Guinea. They follow the former Japanese collaborator Sukarno's threats to the Dutch and to Australia that he regarded New Guinea as Indonesian territory and would not rest until all New Guinea came under his country's control. Within recent days hints have come from the Dutch that personnel of Sukarno's fifth column already have landed in Dptch New Guinea. Australia’s charge—the huge north-eastern section, apart from Papua—is our problem. Australia's mandate over this part is clearly defined, but Sukarno thinks otherwise, and along the coastline Indonesians are infiltrating, preparing and spying, exactly as did the Japanese before 1941."

The “Sunday Sun” says: “A militia battalion will be formed in New Guinea immediately, according to the Army Minister, Mr Francis. A navy of fast patrol boats will also be formed to police New Guinea waters and navigable rivers. The frigate Culgoa is now in New Guinea waters ‘showing the flag.’ "