SCMP, 21 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
Man Admits He Carried Bomb
A man carrying a parcel was stopped by two police constables outside No 88 Johnston Road shortly before 9 pm yesterday.
The police officers asked the man: “What have you got in that parcel?” The man answered: “A bomb.”
The police officers asked: “A real bomb?” “Yes,” the man replied. He was seized.
The bomb, a genuine one, was later detonated by an Army ammunition expert.
***
SCMP, 21 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
BOMB ATTACKED ON POLICE
Seven Officers, Thirteen Civilians Injured
YOUTHS DEMONSTRATE
A total of 20 people, including seven policemen, were injured in a spate of bomb throwing and bomb planting on both sides of the harbour last night. The injuries suffered were fortunately for the most part only slight, and only two of the policemen were detained in hospital.
Five of the police were injured when a bomb was thrown at them in Johnston Road, Wanchai, shortly before 8.30 pm. Two other policemen and ten civilians were hurt in another bomb throwing incident in Peiho Street, Shamshuipo, at 9 pm.
Throughout yesterday evening, nine genuine bombs, two in Kowloon and seven on the Island, were found, besides a host of others which turned out to be fakes. All were detonated by Army ammunition experts.
Leftist school children and workers staged a demonstration outside the Golden City Restaurant, near Central Market, in Queen's Road Central and painted slogans on the road and on a passing bus.
The demonstrators, numbering more than 80, appeared shortly after 5 pm, chanting slogans and distributing underground news sheets.
On reaching the Golden City Restaurant, they put up two white banners on the railings and two of the demonstrators held up traffic to paint slogans on the road.
A No 7 bus bound for Aberdeen was painted with the characters “Down with Hongkong-British.”
When police arrived 15 minutes later, the two slogan painters, who had not finished writing the characters, scurried into side streets, leaving behind tins of white paint spilt on the pavement.
No one was arrested.
About the same time, another group of about 50 leftist school children chanted slogans along Queen’s Road West near High Street.
While some of the children, whose ages ranged from 12 to 16, shouted slogans, others planted bombs or wrote slogans on the street with paint.
The children planted a total of three fake bombs, two of them outside the Dor Nam teahouse and another outside a restaurant nearby.
They scattered into the side streets on the approach of police, a shopkeeper said.
Twenty minutes later, about 100 people were seen marching in Belchers Street, Kennedy Town.
They dispersed when the police arrived.
Two banners were found outside the Hongkong and Shanghai Bank branch office.
Two girls and a boy were taken to the police station for enquiries.
At 7 pm, about 400 people were seen marching along Shanghai Street from Yaumati to the Mongkok area. Some of them had banners and distributed inflammatory pamphlets.
A police car was sent to the scene and when the crowd failed to disperse, the police fired one round of tear-gas.
At this time, two bombs were thrown at the police who were then forced to fire two rounds of carbine to disperse the crowd.
Another bomb was later thrown at the same police car outside No 437 Shanghai Street. It missed and exploded on the ground.
The fragments injured a seven-year-old girl, Au Po-ying. She was taken to hospital with slight injuries to the left hand and leg.
Two women and three men were arrested in the area.
Shortly afterwards, another police party saw a crowd of about 150 people in Shanghai Street near Argyle Street.
- Boxes On Road -
Eight men were seen putting up some banners and boxes in the road near Shanghai Street. The boxes later turned out lo be fake bombs.
Before they ran away, the men scattered some small pieces of glass, iron and nails on the road.
The crowd then attacked the police with stones and other objects.
A bomb was also thrown at the police, but it failed to explode. Two rounds of gas cartridges and one wooden shell were fired.
A crowd of about 200 people was seen placing some objects on the tram tracks outside the Eastern Fire Station, Hennessy Road, about 7.20 pm.
The objects were later found to be rice bowls.
The crowd dispersed before the arrival of the police.
At 7.45 pm, Army ammunition experts detonated a charge under an object found in Salisbury Road, Tsimshatsui.
The object was composed of several pieces of piping, filled with sand and paper with slogans.
A small boy was slightly injured when a bomb was thrown at a police party in Reclamation Street near Hamilton Street, Mongkok, about 7.45 pm. No policeman was injured.
Eight people, including a woman, were attested on Hongkong in connection with various incidents.
At 7.50 pm a man was arrested when he was seen placing a fake bomb outside the Shaukiwan Post Office.
The incident attracted a crowd of about 700, mostly onlookers, and when they refused to disperse after repeated warnings, the police arrested five men and one woman.
At 10.15 pm, a man was arrested when he was found to be in possession of a genuine bomb.
- Thrown From Roof -
About 100 people gathered in Laichikok Road near Nam Cheong Street, Shamshuipo, and a similar group in Mataukok Road, Tokwawan, shortly before 8 pm. They dispersed on seeing the police.
Five policemen were injured when a bomb was thrown down from the roof of a building in Johnston Road near Swatow Street shortly after 8 pm.
The policemen were among a party which was sent there to investigate a reported bomb.
A shot from a Greener gun was fired when a policeman saw a man, suspected to be the bomb thrower, running along the road. However, the shot missed.
At this time, a crowd of about 500 people gathered in the area. It is believed that most of them were onlookers.
The police were forced to fire two baton shells to disperse them.
Later, two bombs were found in the vicinity and they were subsequently detonated by Army ammunition experts.
No arrests were made.
Shortly before 9 pm, another bomb was thrown at the police, but missed, in Johnston Road near O'Brien Road.
- Lower Albert Road -
Three objects suspected to be “bombs” were discovered in three different locations in Lower Albert Road at its junction with Wyndham Street, Central, shortly after 8.45 pm.
Each of the objects was contained in a paper bag round which was a piece of paper with some inflammatory Chinese characters written on it.
An Army ammunition expert detonated the “bombs” one after the other.
Two policemen and ten passers-by were injured when a bomb was thrown into the street from a building in Shamshuipo.
The policemen were in a party sent to Pei Ho Street at the junction of Yee Kuk Street to divert traffic and pedestrians after a bomb was reported nearby.
At about the same time, three detectives arrested a youth seen putting a travelling bag on a zebra crossing at Laichikok.
An eye-witness said that the youth was accompanied by two young girls.
- Chase After Car -
The travelling bag was later found to contain three bombs, one of which was genuine.
At 10 pm, a car trying to get through a police cordon in Laichikok Road, near Peiho Street, was stopped by police.
While the driver was being questioned, one of four men in the car suddenly threw a bomb at a party of police in the area and then accelerated towards Mongkok.
The bomb did not explode.
Police then fired several shots at the car which went off at a very fast speed.
Police at once gave chase and all police cars in the area were told to look for the vehicle.
Later, it was found abandoned in Prince Edward Road near Tai Nam Street, Shamshuipo, with one of its window shattered, apparently by gunfire.
Near the abandoned car, police discovered an injured youth under a lorry.
Police later took fingerprint impressions from the abandoned vehicle.
For the first time fake bombs were planted outside Communist establishments.
One of them was found outside the left-wing Heung To Middle School in Playing Field Road in Kowloon in the morning. It was later detonated by Army ammunition experts.
At 7 pm, a box wrapped in paper was found outside the Wah Fung China Products Store in North Point.
When detonated, it was found to contain empty bottles.
Four gunshots were heard from the Chinese side of the Shataukok border following the explosion of a bomb which injured four Gurkha soldiers and a police constable at 10 pm on Tuesday, it was disclosed yesterday.
A Government spokesman said yesterday that those who heard the shots, which came from a northeast direction, said they were definitely not fired at positions on the Hongkong side of the border.
- Recognised -
The spokesman said that shortly before the bomb was thrown, the Gurkha officer-in-charge of the party noticed a man lurking in the shadows on the opposite side of San Lau Street.
One of the two policemen with the patrol later said he recognised the man as one whom he had previously seen struggling with soldiers of the People’s Liberation Army, the spokesman added.
All the injured soldiers and the police constable, with the exception of a Gurkha sergeant, were treated at Shataukok and resumed their duties.
The sergeant was admitted to the British Military Hospital but his injuries were considered to be of a minor nature, the spokesman added.
The Communist press yesterday made no mention of the Mongkok explosion on Tuesday night which injured many pedestrians.
They only reported the police casualties and the damage to the police Land Rover as well as the demonstration.
Twenty-five of the 26 people injured in the Mongkok explosion were last night reported to be in a satisfactory condition.
Of the 13 people arrested in connection with the incident, nine have been charged with various offences and four were released.
 |
| L: A tin of white paint, used by demonstrators yesterday to paint slogans on the road, lies spilt near the Central Market after it had been abandoned on arrival of the police. / R: Police use crowbars to force their way into one of the premises searched during the operation at the Ferry Point Estate. [21 Sep] |
***
SCMP, 21 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
Pre-dawn Raid In Yaumati
Police seized a number of inflammatory posters and detained a man for questioning in a surprise pre-dawn search of premises in the Ferry Point Estate, Yaumati, yesterday.
The posters and the man were found on the premises of the Marine Department Chinese Employees’ Union, on the third floor of Man Wai Mansion — one of the six blocks searched. Some documents were also removed.
The operation was mounted shortly after 4 am when more than 400 policemen, aided by soldiers, cordoned off the estate.
No resistance was encountered but the police had to break into a number of premises by using blow torches and crowbars.
The police left the area at 6.45 am.
In the afternoon, the police searched the premises of the Spinning Dyeing and Weaving Union in Tsun Wan and detained 32 men and a woman for questioning. Some documents were seized.
The premises were on the fifth floor of No 100 Chung On Street. No resistance was encountered. The area was cordoned off by police and Gurkha soldiers.
***
SCMP, 21 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
Legislative Council
QUICK AND SUCCESSFUL REMOVAL OF BOMB INGREDIENTS
The quick and successful removal of potential bomb material from licensed explosives stores last month was largely due to a plan that had existed since the end of 1966, the Hon R. M. Hetherington, Commissioner of Mines, ‘told the Legislative Council yesterday.
The operation began a few hours after 363 sticks of gelignite were stolen from a Repulse Bay explosives store—the second explosives theft within a few days.
The decision to remove all explosives in licensed stores was made after the first of the two gelignite thefts occurred on the night of August 14, Mr Hetherington said. But before the decision could be implemented the second store was raided by thieves.
Bad weather prolonged the removal of the explosives from August 19, when it was started, to August 22.
Mr Hetherington said: “The quick and successful carrying out of this difficult and dangerous task involving visits to 88 stores and the removal at nearly 20 tons of explosives was largely due to the preparation of a plan at the end of 1966 to meet such a situation.
“This was devised on the basis of experience gained when a similar operation of a limited nature was conducted in parts of Kowloon during the riots in April, 1966.”
Mr Hetherington thanked “those who drew up the plan so carefully” and those who worked exceptionally long hours in carrying it out, at times under the most unpleasant weather conditions, as well as the licensees of stores who cooperated willingly in the operation.
Dealing with another question by the Hon Fung Hon-chu, who had asked about the gelignite thefts, Mr Hetherington said there was no evidence of collusion by the stores watchmen in the thefts.
- Prosecuted -
But two watchmen at the site of the first theft, near Tin Hau Temple Road, had later been prosecuted, fined and their watchmen’s permits revoked because they had illegally kept two sticks of gelignite in their quarters, he said.
It was not possible to say how many of the stolen gelignite sticks were “still at large.”
The thefts and the subsequent removal operation had delayed stilt another explosives control measure, the collection of all fireworks, Mr Hetherington said.
This scheme was devised after investigations into the terrorist bomb campaign had shown that most of the bombs contained black powder normally used in fireworks.
The operation to deny the terrorists this basic ingredient by removing fireworks would have been introduced earlier, had the thefts from the explosives stores not occurred, he said.
Mr Hetherington warmly praised members of the public who had handed in a total of about 130 tons of fireworks up to Tuesday, besides the 30 tons that were known to have been in the hands of licensed dealers.
“The amounts handed in exceeded all expectations and special measures had to be taken to deal with the flood of fireworks which came in,” he said.
He added: “It is clear that, faced with the choice of surrendering fireworks which play such an important part in the traditional customs of the community or of continuing to run the risks of death or injuries from bombs made from the contents of fireworks, the people of Hongkong have demonstrated clearly and emphatically that they are willing to make considerable sacrifices to frustrate the lawless activities of the few irresponsible terrorists in our midst.”
***
SCMP, 21 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
Leftists Prepare For National Day
Preparations by most local left-wing organisations for the celebration of China's National Day on October 1 are well under way.
Many left-wing buildings and department stores are already displaying giant placards and banners praising Chairman Mao Tse-tung and his thoughts.
But at the Bank of China, where decorations in previous years have been lavish, workers yesterday were just beginning to put up the framework for a display.
The usual precautionary measures will be taken by the police on October 1. All police will be cancelled, a Government spokesman said yesterday.
An Army spokesman said all Army personnel will be on standby duty and will assist the police if required as in previous years.
***
SCMP, 21 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
Mr Eates Visits Injured Men
Mr E. C. Eates, the Acting Commissioner of Police, yesterday visited five police officers who are receiving treatment in Queen Elizabeth Hospital for injuries suffered in incidents caused by trouble-makers.
Mr Eates spent about 45 minutes with the men—Insp Choi Yiu-cheong, Sgt Chan Kwong-shun, Sgt Lau Keung, PC Ho Wai-hung, and PC Wong Kwong-loi.
***
SCMP, 21 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
GOVERNOR HAS TALKS IN LONDON
London, Sept. 20.
Sir David Trench, the Governor of Hongkong, conferred yesterday with Lord Shepherd, Commonwealth Minister of State, on political and other developments in the Colony.
He was also continuing discussions at the Commonwealth Office with top officials of the Far Eastern Department who were briefing him on the situation.
The Governor, who has been on two months’ home leave, plans to leave by air on Saturday to return to the Colony. — Reuter.
***
SCMP, 21 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Three Carpenters Charged
Three carpenters pleaded not guilty before Mr E. Light at Central Court yesterday to possessing three inflammatory posters.
They are Cheung Yuen (36), Yu Ki-fan (20) and Yung Kuen (40).
They are alleged to have had the posters under their control at the Hongkong and Kowloon Carpenters’ General Union, 229 Queen’s Road East, fifth floor, last Friday.
The case will be heard today.
***
SCMP, 21 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Two Convicted On Posters Charge
Two youths were yesterday convicted by Judge J. E. Hopkinson at Victoria District Court on various charges arising out of an incident outside the Repulse Bay Hotel in the early hours of the morning of July 30.
Tang Chi-kong (17) and Chu Kam-tung (26) were found guilty of charges of possessing inflammatory posters and failing to report the possession of a bomb. Tang was also found guilty of a further charge of consorting with another person who had an explosive substance in his possession.
- Package -
The prosecution’s case against Tang was that he was a member of a group of five youths who were seen at 2.30 am on July 30 near the Repulse Bay Hotel putting up posters on the door of a bus regulator’s hut and placing a package on the road which was later certified to be a bomb.
The case against Chu was that he was the driver of the car which took the youths to the scene of the incident and that he aided and abetted them in putting up the posters.
Judge Hopkinson will pass sentence on the two defendants today.
***
SCMP, 21 Sep 1697 (Page 8)
STORE OWNER JAILED
A store owner was sent to prison for 14 months by Mr D. A. Davies at North Kowloon Court yesterday after he was found guilty of possessing 45 inflammatory posters.
He was Li San (45), alias Li Kei-san, of Room 16, Block 8, Wongtaisin resettlement estate, ground floor.
Before passing sentence, Mr Davies said he was satisfied that Li knowingly had the posters under his control.
Earlier, Det-Insp Lam Cheuk-kuen, of CID, Wongtaisin, told the court that shortly after noon on August 24 he went to Li's shop and found 23 inflammatory posters. Another 22 posters were found at Li’s residence.
***
SCMP, 21 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Policeman Struck With Iron Bar
A 14-year-old boy pleaded guilty before Mr T. J. van Rees at Central Court yesterday to forming part of an intimidating assembly.
Inspector A. F. Blair said the boy was among 28 people arrested on the refuse pier at the junction of French Street and Connaught Road West on the night of September 12.
The crowd was listening to Communist songs being broadcast from a junk. When the police arrived and attempted to disperse them four men ran forward armed with iron bars.
One of them hit a corporal over the head with a bar, dropped it and then jumped into the harbour. Four shots were fired at him but he escaped, Mr Blair said.
The defendant was just one of the crowd. He was not seen shouting or waving his arms, Inspector Blair added.
Mr van Rees deferred sentence until Monday.
The boy said he was taking a walk when he saw the crowd on the pier and went to see what was happening.
- Shouting -
Twenty-seven others, including three youths, pleaded not guilty to the same charge.
Three of them, Ho Sing, Wan Kuen and Lo Sing-cheun, were additionally charged with possession of an iron bar for an unlawful purpose.
They pleaded not guilty.
Testifying, Sergeant Tang Wan said that when the police arrived the crowd was shouting. As the police advanced he heard shouts of “hit them.”
He saw four men step forward, each armed with an iron bar. One of them hit a corporal over the head before jumping into the harbour, he said.
Hearing will continue today.
***
SCMP, 21 Sep 1967 (Page 10)
THE GOVERNOR’S RETURN
The Far Eastern Economic Review is a respected journal from which earlier this week we had the pleasure of reprinting a thoughtful economic survey of the Colony. Yesterday, however, the magazine published an editorial on the impending return of the Governor, Sir David Trench, which appeared to us as ill-timed as it, was ill-conceived. It begins by stating that “uncertainty still clouds” the return of the Governor when, so far as one knows, no such uncertainty exists. It proceeds to the assertion that the Governor is “an unlucky man” along with a dissertation on good and bad “joss” which might have graced the pages of James Clavell’s best-selling ‘‘Taipan” but seems less relevant in a sober magazine ostensibly devoted to the subject of economics. Sir David’s governorship is stated to have been marked by “a prolonged two-year drought” — is this true?’ — floods, riots, landslides and banking and real estate crises, The complaint follows that “nothing radical” has been done in such fields as education, housing and local government reform. The editorial, however, shows no apparent realisation that the various “unlucky” disasters calling for emergency measures might have had anything to do with delay in desirable reforms of a more permanent nature.
When the Governor departed on a much overdue leave, still convalescent after an illness, there was very general and spontaneous admiration (except, of course, in one quarter) for the courage and firmness with which he had prevented a “Macao situation” from developing in Hongkong and for a leadership which had inspired all law-abiding citizens. There will be an equally general welcome for him on his return (except, regrettably, it seems, in not one but now two quarters). For the main tenor of the FEER editorial is that Whitehall, in not replacing Sir David, has failed in its duty and that the sooner he is replaced by a “politician” — the review’s candidate being Mr Douglas Jay — the better. Constructive criticism of the administration is a necessary task. But there is a time and place for all things and though the expression “rocking the boat” may be something of a tired cliche here, it still has a certain basic meaning. What is more, criticism of the administration — especially of those members of it least in a position to answer back — very largely in terms of personalities rather than policies smacks of what used to be called “Beaverbrook tactics.” The troubles have changed many things in Hongkong. They have not altered the fact that it remains a Colony and that in a Colony a Governor has a dual role, as the FEER acknowledges. The normal courtesies are surely due to him in that role. They have not, in our view, been accorded in this case.
***
SCMP, 22 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
Reds Continue To Plant Bombs
ARMY EXPERT LOSES FINGERS
Troublemakers continued their spate of bomb planting in the Colony yesterday, culminating in a demonstration by leftist students in Kowloon City last night. A total of 61 bomb reports was made.
Although there were no reports of bomb throwings, there was, however, one bomb casualty. An Army ammunition expert lost the tip of his thumb and two fingers of his left hand when a suspected bomb he was examining suddenly exploded. The incident occurred in Yuen Long, New Territories, shortly after noon.
Seven hours later, four British soldiers in mufti caught a young man in the act of planting a suspected bomb on the road outside the entrance of the Mongkok branch of the Hongkong and Shanghai Bank in Nathan Road.
The soldiers, members of the 2nd Battalion The Queen's Regiment, were travelling in a taxi shortly after 7 pm when they saw the man placing a shoe box and a red flag near the entrance of the bank. They immediately stopped the taxi and caught the man. He was later handed over to the police.
- Name Withheld -
Army ammunition experts later detonated the parcel. The “bomb” turned out to be a fake.
The Army ammunition expert injured was an officer attached to the 69 Gurkha Independent Field Squadron. His name has been withheld by the Army authorities.
Besides losing two fingers, the officer also suffered injuries to his body. He was taken by helicopter to the British Military Hospital where he was operated on. His condition last night was described as “good”.
Of the bombs planted in various part of the Colony, eight were genuine. Four of these were on Hongkong Island, two in Kowloon and two in the New Territories.
During last night’s demonstration at Kowloon City in which about 200 students and workers took part, eight fake bombs were planted in the area.
The demonstrators also distributed pamphlets and shouted slogans. As police arrived, the demonstrators dispersed. Most of them escaped into the Walled City.
Bombs were found in Queen's Road East near Stone Nullah Lane, Wanchai, in Chaiwan Road, Ah Kung Ngam Road, Tin Hau Temple Road behind the Victoria Restaurant, on the flyover near Garden Road, in Hoiping Road near Leighton Road, in Arsenal Street near the Police Headquarters, in Statue Square outside the Nanyang Commercial Bank, outside the Tsimshatsui Police Station, and outside the St Francis School in Shekkipmei.
In the New Territories, a bomb contained in a kerosene tin was placed in the centre of Clearwater Bay Road near the six-milestone. This was the second time in two consecutive days when bombs were found in the area.
At 1 am yesterday, two real bombs were found outside the Yuen Long Mansion in Main Street, Yuen Long.
About the same time, a bomb was placed in the middle of Taipo Road near Taipo Tau. A private car ran over the bomb at great speed. It exploded seconds later. The vehicle and its passengers escaped damage and injuries.
Three real bombs were discovered outside an old market in Yuen Long at 8 am. Another one was found outside the Immigration Office an hour later.
***
SCMP, 22 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
Informal Welcome For Governor
No formal arrangements have been made for the return of His Excellency the Governor, Sir David Trench, from the United Kingdom on Sunday.
A Government spokesman said yesterday that Sir David would be met at Kai Tak by the Officer Administering the Government, Mr M. D. I. Gass, and other officials. He would then cross the harbour in the launch Lady Maurine and would be welcomed by leading members of the community in a brief, informal ceremony at Queen's Pier,
Lady Trench will return a few weeks later.
***
SCMP, 22 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
ALLEGED BOMBER KILLED IN BLAST
A seriously injured man is under police guard in hospital following a bomb explosion which caused the death of another man in the New Territories on Wednesday night.
Both men were found in Jockey Club Road near Bees Hill Quarters, Kam Tin Village, following an explosion about 10.30 pm.
Police said yesterday it was believed that the men had the bomb in their possession. A search of the dead man’s quarters had revealed evidence of bomb manufacture.
Explosions which occurred in the New Territories on Wednesday night coincided with a rash of Communist-inspired bombing and demonstrations in Kowloon and on the Island. Several Communist school children were arrested on suspicion of planting bombs and putting up banners during the demonstrations.
The man killed in the New Territories was identified as Yuen Yan, a 24-year-old cook of the Royal Hongkong Jockey Club, Fanling.
Under police guard in Queen Elizabeth Hospital is a 45-year-old lorry driver for a transport company, who is suffering from multiple injuries to his face, chest and limbs.
Earlier on Wednesday night, an explosion occurred in the road leading to the Taipo Police Station. A man was later arrested.
At 2 am yesterday, a man was arrested in connection with a bomb that was found at the junction of Lokmachau Road and Fanling Lodge Road.
- Booby Trap -
Police said that the planting of several bombs and the putting up of banners on Wednesday night was, in part, the work of pupils from Communist schools.
In one incident, police said, six people, including three pupils of the Pui Kiu Middle School, were arrested in Shaukiwan when they were caught putting up a “booby trap” banner. The banner had a bomb lied to it.
A 14-year-old pupil of the Heung To Middle School was arrested in Laichikok Road near its junction with Peiho Street when he was seen planting a bomb in the central island of a zebra crossing.
- Five Arrested -
Five men were arrested when police raided a house at 36 Ho Pui Street in Tsun Wan. One of them was wanted in connection with two previous bomb incidents.
In a raid on Wednesday afternoon, three bottles of what was believed to be explosive powder were found on the first floor of 78 Connaught. Road West. No one was arrested.
For the second day running, the Communist press yesterday made no mention of civilian casualties in the bomb explosions on Wednesday night. They only reported the police casualties, as well as referring to the demonstrations.
***
SCMP, 22 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
FIREWORKS DISPLAY BY REDS?
A left-wing newspaper reported yesterday that a fireworks display would be the highlight of celebrations marking China’s National Day on October 1—despite a Government ban on fireworks.
The New Evening Post said the display would start at 8 pm and would last for four hours. The fireworks would be set off from the Wanchai and Western waterfronts.
The newspaper also said that about 200 units from left-wing organisations would be taking part in the celebrations, but it did not say how many people would be involved.
The paper added that in addition to the fireworks display, stage shows would be held at the Astor Theatre in Nathan Road and the Ko Shing Theatre in Western district.
A Government spokesman said yesterday that these theatre performances had been licensed in the normal way.
***
SCMP, 22 Sep 1697 (Page 6)
Warning Heeded By Communist Schools
Nine Communist schools and their branches, warned last month not to indulge in the dissemination of propaganda and subversive teaching, have all re-opened and have allowed inspection by the Education Department.
A spokesman of the Department said yesterday that recent inspections of the schools had not revealed any breaches of the 13 conditions laid down in a warning letter sent on August 18.
The Hon W. D. Gregg, Director of Education, had given a warning that unless the conditions were complied with the schools faced closure.
- Prohibited -
The conditions prohibited, among other things, the display of inflammatory material, possession of weapons, obstruction of school inspectors and intimidation of pupils or inspectors from the Education Department.
The schools to which letters were sent were the Chung Wa Middle School, Fukien Middle School, Heung To Middle School, Hon Wah Middle School, Pei Chiao Middle School, Shun Shau School, Sun Kiu Middle School, Nairn Road Primary School and Chung Yeh Night Institute.
Many pupils are known to have left these schools to attend Government or subsidised schools, but the Education Department’s spokesman would not say how many have done this.
***
SCMP, 22 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
Explosives Now Issued To Contractors
The issue of explosives from Government stores started yesterday under strict security arrangements, the Hon R. M. Hetherington, Commissioner of Mines, said.
Contractors and quarry operators had been denied the use of explosives since they were withdrawn from licensed stores last month.
Quantities being made available were limited to the daily requirements of users, Mr Hetherington said. The supply, delivery and use of explosives were being directly supervised by officers from the Mines Department, the Police Force, the Public Works Department, the Civil Aid Services, the Marine Department and the Armed Services.
Mr Hetherington said residents should not be alarmed if they heard explosions from quarries and work sites in the future.
***
SCMP, 22 Sep 1967 (Page 7)
JUDGEMENT RESERVED
Men Accused Of Being Part Of Intimidating Assembly
Judgment on five men, charged under the Emergency Regulations, was reserved till today by Judge J. E. Hopkinson at Victoria District Court yesterday.
The five, Wan Hung (40), Lam Fat (17), Leung Ping-kiu (21), Huen Piu-kwan (23) and Chung Yam-leung (27), had denied charges of forming part of an intimidating assembly in Des Voeux Road West on August 8.
Detective Police Constable Luk Leung testified that when he arrived at the scene of the disturbance, he saw a crowd of about 300 people gathered near the junction of French Street.
Bottles were hurled at two police vehicles that arrived at the scene and the police were forced to fire gas shells when repeated warnings to the crowd to disperse were ignored, he said.
The detective told the court that he observed everything from the staircase of a nearby building where he had taken refuge.
DPC Luk said that the police eventually fired revolver shots at the crowd and they began to disperse. He said he saw five men break away from the crowd and rum across the road to a building close to his hiding place. He followed them.
- Identified -
He added that he and two other constables with him arrested the five men, whom he identified as the defendants.
In unsworn statements from the dock, ail five maintained their innocence.
Wan Hung claimed he was in the building to hide from the crowd.
Lam Fat said the crowd was orderly until the police dispersed them. He said that this was a “provocative” act. He told the court that the case against them was “fabricated by the police.”
Huen declared he was “ill-treated by the Hongkong British authorities” and that the “Emergency Regulations were made to lay false charges against compatriots.”
***
SCMP, 22 Sep 1967 (Page 7)
BOMBS HURLED AT POLICE PARTY
Man Jailed For Part In Kowloon Disturbance
A police corporal told Judge E. G. Baber at Kowloon District Court yesterday that he was attacked with bombs, stones and bottles after he arrested two girls during a demonstration in Kowloon City.
The corporal, Lam Wei-ping, was testifying at the trial of Lo Hoi-cheung, who was accused of taking part in an unlawful and intimidating assembly in Kowloon City on August 9.
Lo was convicted and jailed for four and a half years.
Cpl Lam said that while he and his men were on patrol in a police vehicle in Ngatsinwei Road he saw that traffic in the area was held up. He and two constables got out of the vehicle and saw a crowd of 60 people shouting slogans and singing songs.
Lo was leading the demonstration, Cpl Lam said. Several other men were painting slogans on the road. A banner was hanging on a traffic sign.
Cpl Lam said he and two constables advanced on the crowd. Lo ran towards Fuk Lo Tsun Road and the crowd followed him.
Cpl Lam said he arrested two girls who were with the crowd. As he was taking them away he was attacked with stones, bottles and baskets. Someone also shouted: “Bomb him.”
- Tense -
The situation became very tense and he and the constables released the girls. A little later, a bomb exploded 20 feet away from them.
Three women and a man were injured in the explosion, Cpl Lam said. While he was applying first aid to the injured people, another bomb was thrown and dropped behind him but it did not explode.
Police reinforcements arrived and the injured people were taken to hospital. The unexploded bomb was detonated by an Army expert.
Lo was arrested in his home two hours later, Cpl Lam added.
***
SCMP, 22 Sep 1967 (Page 7)
Magistrate Recommends Deportation
A youth, arrested in July during a police raid on a union in Kowloon, was recommended for deportation by Mr D. A. Davies at North Kowloon Court yesterday.
Mr Davies made the recommendation when he sentenced the youth to nine months in jail on a charge of being found on premises housing offensive weapons.
He said he would suggest to the appropriate authorities that a deportation order be served on the youth after his release from prison. The magistrate added that the youth was not suitable for a training centre and a probation officer's report indicated that efforts to reform him had failed.
The youth was arrested during a police raid on the Motor Transport Workers’ Union, Kowloon Branch, at 343-349 Portland Street, Mongkok, on July 25.
***
SCMP, 22 Sep 1967 (Page 7)
Union Caretaker Sent To Jail
A carpenter was jailed for six months by Mr E. Light at Central Court yesterday when he was convicted of being in control of three inflammatory posters.
Yung Kuen (40), a caretaker of the Hongkong and Kowloon Carpenters’ General Union, 229 Queen's Road East, Wanchai, was arrested during a police raid on the union on Friday, last week.
Two other carpenters, Cheung Yuen (36) and Yu Ki-fan (20), jointly charged with the same offence, were acquitted.
They said they had nothing to do with the union's affairs and had gone there merely to pass the time.
***
SCMP, 22 Sep 1967 (Page 7)
Bomb Found In Repulse Bay: Two Jailed
A 17-year-old youth, who was arrested as he and four other youths were putting up posters and placing a bomb on the road in Repulse Bay on July 30, was jailed for four years by Judge J. E. Hopkinson at Victoria District Court yesterday.
Tang Chi-kong was found guilty on Wednesday of possessing inflammatory posters, consorting with another person who had an explosive substance and failing to report the possession of a bomb.
Another defendant, Chu Kam-tung (26) was jailed for two years for failing to report the possession of a bomb.
The prosecution said Chu was the driver of the car which took the youths to Repulse Bay.
***
SCMP, 22 Sep 1967 (Page 7)
Six Remanded
Six people, including two 16-year-old youths, were charged before Mr F. de F. Stratton, at North Kowloon Court yesterday with riot, taking part in an intimidating. and unlawful assembly and possession of & simulated bomb.
They were arrested in Mongkok on Tuesday.
Mr Stratton remanded them for seven days in jail custody for further enquiries.
***
SCMP, 23 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
Acid Attack Made On Policeman
DEMONSTRATOR SHOT IN KOWLOON
A man was shot and wounded when a policeman was attacked with a bottle of acid during a demonstration in Tokwawan, Kowloon, yesterday. Police later arrested a man believed to be the acid thrower.
The incident occurred when about 100 people gathered outside the Yan Yan Restaurant in Kowloon City Road shortly after 5.30 pm.
The demonstrators put up banners and shouted slogans. A patrolling police van stopped and attempted to disperse the crowd.
A man threw a bottle containing acid at one of the policemen who then fired a revolver shot, injuring one of the demonstrators.
Both the policeman and the man are now receiving treatment at Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
The crowd dispersed when police reinforcements arrived at the scene. Three suspected bombs were found in the vicinity. They turned out to be fakes.
- Bombs Thrown -
Later in the evening, about 8 pm, three bombs were thrown at a police car in another demonstration by leftist agitators in Nam Cheong Street, Shamshuipo.
One of the bombs exploded near the police vehicle and caused minor damage. There were no casualties.
Earlier, 300 people gathered at the junction of Laichikok Road and Nam Cheong Street, Shamshuipo, outside the Dao Heng Bank.
Shortly after, police arrived at the scene and ordered the crowd to disperse. They ignored the order and the police were forced to fire two wooden projectiles. The crowd dispersed but re-assembled shortly afterwards further down Nam Cheong Street.
At this time a police Land Rover with reinforcements arrived. As the Land Rover was turning into Nam Cheong Street from Laichikok Road three bombs were thrown at the vehicle.
It was one of these bombs that damaged the Land Rover. The two other bombs which did not explode, were detonated later by Army ammunition experts.
- Crowd Forms -
About the same time, another crowd formed on the northern side of Nam Cheong Street. They left after police ordered them to disperse. But they left three bombs in the middle of the road outside the Hei Sheung Fung Restaurant at 270B Nam Cheong Street. ‘The bombs were later detonated by Army ammunition experts and found to be fakes.
The police left the area after the bombs were detonated.
Following a tip-off, the police searched two premises in the Southern Building, King’s Road, North Point, and a flat in Hoi Kwong Street, Quarry Bay, last night, but nothing suspicious was found.
The police received information that the premises were suspected to be “bomb’ factories”.
Mr J. H. Harris, Divisional Superintendent of Bayview Police Station, who led the police searches, said that they had to check every report they received. The operation lasted about an hour from 9.40 pm.
Meanwhile, 41 suspected bomb reports were received by the police in the Colony yesterday, but only three in Kowloon turned out to be genuine ones.
The real bombs were found in Nam Cheong Street near Laichikok Road, Ma Hang Chung Road near Kowloon City Road and outside 185 Matauwai Road, Tokwawan.
A parcel, suspected to be a bomb, was found in an eastbound bus shortly after 11.45 am in the Central District. It caused some panic among the 50 passengers.
The “bomb” was found to be a fake and removed.
A suspicious object, a cardboard carton, was placed by the railings outside the Hwamer Restaurant in Wyndham Street opposite the S.C.M. Post Building shortly before 5 pm yesterday.
On examination, the carton was found to contain old papers and rubbish.
A fake bomb was detonated by Army experts in Kennedy Road near the Peak Tram terminus shortly before 9 pm.
***
SCMP, 23 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
CHINESE USING BIG MORTARS AT BORDER
Heavy recoilless mortars have been sighted on the Chinese side of the border at Lowu, British military observers said yesterday. Four of the 75 millimetre mortars were seen being used by Chinese troops as they carried out firing practice on Wednesday.
“I’ve never heard of anything as big as that in that area before,” one observer said. He said the four big mortars must have been towed into position during darkness because they were not seen until Wednesday morning. They were lined up in a field beyond Lowu, pointing into the hills and away from Hongkong.
One soldier said the troops practised for about four hours, although they used only one of the four mortars. “We saw shell bursts between two hills about five miles away,” he said. “They were shooting very well… all the shells dropped close together.”
He added that about 30 soldiers were grouped round each mortar, “possibly to stop us from learning how many it takes to operate them.”
Afterwards, the four mortars were hauled away — mounted on tripods with wheels — to a spot about half a mile from the railway bridge.
They were not sighted yesterday. However, Chinese troops were observed carrying out small arms practice about two miles beyond Lowu during the morning. Another group of about 100 did the same in the afternoon.
An officer pointed out one encouraging change in the firing practice on the other side of the border. “While before they always aimed up here at us, now they always aim the other way,” he said.
One soldier said that during his past week’s duty at the Crest Hill border post, he noticed that a demonstration was held on a road on the Chinese side every night about 6 pm. “Red Guards march out on to the road, form up and hold a sort of rally,” he said. “On some nights there are about 200 of them, other nights only about 40.”
***
SCMP, 23 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
Leftists To Defy Fireworks Ban?
If Hongkong Communists actually go through with their fireworks display in the harbour on October 1, as reported by left-wing newspapers on Thursday, they will be running up directly against the ban imposed on September 8.
Commenting on the reports, a Government spokesman said yesterday it was not intended to relax the ban at the present time.
“Legislation was recently introduced banning the unlicensed possession of fireworks and since that time no public fireworks displays have been permitted,” the spokesman said.
***
SCMP, 23 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
DETECTIVE TELLS OF ATTACK BY ‘FEROCIOUS’ MOB
A police detective testified at Kowloon District Court yesterday that he had been forced to fire at a “ferocious and antagonistic” mob which had attacked him in Kowloon City on August 3.
Detective. Police Constable Lee Pak-hung was giving evidence at the trial of four men who are accused of rioting and consorting with other people to carry offensive weapons.
The accused are Yeung Wai (40), a canning worker; Chan Chin-fong (52), a weaver; Lai Kwong (23), unemployed; and Wong Tin-sau (47), a tailor.
Yeung, Chan and Wong are further charged with carrying an instrument capable of being used as an offensive weapon. Yeung and Chan are also alleged to have resisted a police officer in the execution of his duty.
Lee testified that shortly after 8 pm, while he was on patrol near the airport, he saw a crowd blocking the path of a bus by placing various objects on the road. They then attacked the bus, throwing concrete blocks and other objects at it. Bamboo poles were used to break the windows. Passengers on the bus had fled as fast as they could.
Lee said he ran to the front of the bus with his revolver drawn and ordered the crowd to stop but they ignored him. He fired two warning shots into the air but this had no effect. In fact, the crowd turned on policemen who had come and stoned them.
- Dodged Blow -
“The crowd was very ferocious and very antagonistic towards us,” he said.
Det Lee added that one man attempted to strike him on the head with a bamboo pole but he dodged the blow and grabbed the man. While he struggled with this man others in the crowd punched him.
He said it was at this stage that he fired four shots into the mob before someone struck his hand with a bamboo pole and caused him to drop the revolver. However, he still retained his hold on the man with whom he was struggling and eventually subdued and handcuffed him. He identified the man as Yeung Wai, the first defendant.
Earlier, Mr A. Corrigan, Crown Counsel, said that when Det Lee dropped his gun, the third defendant, Lai Kwong, picked it up and ran away, but he was caught by another detective.
He added that the second defendant, Chan, was also arrested after a fierce struggle and that the last defendant, Wong, was one of several people who had poured kerosene on gunny bags before throwing them on the bus.
“This was an attack by mad animals incensed by some vengeful lust,” Mr Corrigan said.
The hearing, before Judge R. O'Connor, will continue today.
***
SCMP, 23 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Three Accused Of Displaying Posters
A man and a woman, charged with displaying an inflammatory poster in Shaukiwan Road on Wednesday, were remanded for three days by Mr P. M. Corfe at Central Court yesterday pending translation of the poster.
They are Leung So (25), unemployed, living at 268 Temple Street, second floor. Yaumati, and Wan Yin-bun (17), a woman factory worker, of 512, 26th block, Chaiwan resettlement estate.
Another factory worker, Tang Kwan-yin (36), was remanded for a week on a similar charge. He is alleged to have displayed an inflammatory poster in Shaukiwan on Thursday.
Insp B. L. Coak said that further charges might be preferred against Tang.
***
SCMP, 23 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Planted Fake Bomb
A delivery boy, who planted a tin of water chestnuts rigged to resemble a bomb, was bound over in $250 for one year by Mr P. M. Corfe at Central Court yesterday.
Wong Hon-yee (18), of 150 Wing Lok Street, ground floor, was found guilty last week of possessing a simulated bomb in Wing Lok Street on September 11.
He was remanded until yesterday for a probation officer's report.
***
SCMP, 23 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Young Man Abuses Magistrate
A young man, who was sentenced to a year in jail for offences relating to inflammatory posters, was given an additional four months by Mr T. C. Chan at North Kowloon Court yesterday when he used abusive language.
Liu Wai-yip (20) a painter, was found guilty of possessing an inflammatory poster, interfering with the use of a road and aiding and abetting two other people in painting slogans on the road.
As Mr Chan pronounced the one-year jail sentence Liu called him “a running dog.”
Earlier, the court was told that Liu was arrested on August 25 after he was seen placing a suspected bomb on the railing in Nathan Road, Shamshuipo, while two other people were painting slogans on the road. The others escaped.
***
SCMP, 23 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
‘Angry Young Men’ Sent To Prison
Five “angry young men” were each jailed for two and a half years by Judge J. E. Hopkinson at Victoria District Court yesterday after they were convicted of forming part of an intimidating assembly.
Asked by Judge Hopkinson if they had anything to say, each shouted Mao slogans. As they were being led from the courtroom, they waved to friends and relatives in the public gallery.
They are Wan Hung (40), Lam Fat (17), Leung Ping-kiu (21), Huen Piu-kwan (23) and Chung Yam-leung (27).
They denied they had committed the offence in Des Voeux Road West on August 8 when police were forced to fire tear gas, wooden projectiles, Greener guns and revolver shots to disperse a crowd of 400.
Judge Hopkinson said he had no hesitation in accepting the evidence by the police. It seemed, he said, that these “angry young men” were more interested in making political speeches than excusing themselves.
“The behaviour of the crowd would appear to have been sufficient to alarm anyone present,” said Judge Hopkinson.
Earlier, Mr Michael Sandor, Crown Counsel, told the court that the accused were seen leaving the crowd and running to a nearby building in an effort to escape arrest.
***
SCMP, 23 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Union Watchman Sent To Jail
A watchman of the Bricklaying Workers’ Union, who was arrested during a police raid on the union in Cross Street on August 16, was jailed for 18 months by Judge W. S. Collier at Victoria District Court yesterday.
The man, Luk Kam (48), was convicted of having in his control a quantity of corrosive substance, being found on premises containing offensive weapons and possession of offensive weapons.
Mr T. Carolan, Crown Counsel, said police seized 40 iron pipes, 32 axes, 72 bottles of hydrochloric acid and a knife.
***
SCMP, 23 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Remanded In Hospital On Bomb Charges
Two patients at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital were formally charged with bomb offences yesterday. Mr G. C. Byrne, a South Kowloon Court magistrate, went to the hospital in the morning and remanded both men for three days in hospital custody.
Chan Yuk-wah (20), unemployed, was charged with possession of a bomb last Wednesday.
The other man, Yeung Ying (23), unemployed, of 34, Chi Tong Wai, Cha Hang Village, Taipo, was charged with causing an explosion and doing an act calculated to prevent the proper use of a road.
The Crown alleges that on Wednesday, Yeung and others not in custody had caused an explosion likely to endanger life and had also placed four fake bombs on the approach road leading to the Taipo Police Station.
***
SCMP, 24 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
Fewer reports of bomb incidents
Apart from two bomb explosions, Hongkong yesterday experienced an uneventful day, free of demonstrations and bomb-throwings.
Meanwhile, police continued their efforts to thwart the manufacture of bombs by local Communists by raiding suspected premises.
Police received six reports of suspected bombs, including two in Yuen Long, New Territories.
In the morning, two suspected bombs were found in a busy street in Yuen Long and were later detonated.
Another two suspected bombs were planted outside a branch office of the Hongkong and Shanghai Bank at the Ocean Terminal. One of them was genuine and was detonated without causing any damage.
Later in the afternoon, another genuine bomb placed on the tram tracks in Johnston Road, Wanchai, was detonated.
Last night, another was found and detonated in Magazine Gap Road, near Bowen Road, Mid-levels.
Following up tip-offs about the manufacture of bombs, police raided three premises — ‘the Hongkong and Kowloon Department Stores Workers’ Union in Jordan Road, Yaumati, a flat in the Ying Wong Mansion in King’s Road, and an unnumbered hut in Fortress Hill Road, North Point.
They seized some inflammatory literature and took three men into custody.
Police also searched the ground floor of 58 Kai Yuen Street, North Point, shortly after midnight. No arrests or seizures were made.
- Fireman -
Fireman Cheng Yick-choi (28), of the Fire Services Department, appeared before Mr H. S. Daniell in Fanling Court yesterday accused of possession of a bomb.
Cheng, living in a hut in San Hui, Castle Peak, was arrested yesterday.
He faced four charges accusing him of possession of a bomb, a triangular file, 254 firecrackers and a number of inflammatory posters. All these articles were seized in his hut during the police raid.
Cheng was remanded in custody till Wednesday.
***
SCMP, 24 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
Governor on way to H.K.
London, Sept. 23.
Sir David Trench, the Governor of Hongkong, left here by air for the Colony today after three-months home leave and consultations with the British Government.
At the airport, the Governor said: “I am very glad to be going back and want to get there quickly now. I have naturally been watching the situation in Hongkong with a great deal of care and interest.”
Sir David attended a ministerial meeting on Friday to talk about the situation in Hongkong. He has also had talks with Mr George Thomson, the Commonwealth Secretary.—Reuter.
Sir David is due to arrive by BOAC about 4 pm and will be met by the Acting Governor, the Commander, British Forces, and the Acting Colonial Secretary. He will cross the harbour for Queen’s Pier where leading members of the community will welcome him back to Hongkong.
***
SCMP, 24 Sep 1967 (Page 2)
Two months for shouting at magistrate
Two 16-year-old girls, who shouted at a magistrate after they were sentenced to 18 months’ jail for possessing inflammatory posters, were given an additional two months each by Mr T. L. von Pokorny in North Kowloon Court yesterday for contempt of court.
They were arrested in Mok Cheong Street, Tokwawan, on August 26 with four posters on them.
Sending them to jail, Mr Pokorny said that according to the probation officer’s report, the girls remained stubborn and that their parents were unwilling to act as surety for them.
***
SCMP, 24 Sep 1967 (Page 3)
SALESMEN ON BOMB CHARGE
Wong Siu-fai (17) and Lee Sing-man (20), salesmen of Chung Kiu China Products Emporium Ltd, in Mongkok, were charged before Mr F. de F. Stratton in North Kowloon Court yesterday with possession of simulated bombs.
They were remanded for four days for further enquiries.
***
SCMP, 24 Sep 1697 (Page 3)
Revolver snatched in struggle with rioters
A detective police constable told Kowloon District Court yesterday that he shot at a man who tried to run away with a police corporal’s revolver during a disturbance in Kowloon City last August.
Although he missed, Const Or Chi-chung told Judge R. O'Connor, he nevertheless arrested the man and retrieved the revolver.
Const Or was giving evidence at the trial of five men charged with rioting and consorting with other people to carry offensive weapons.
The five are Yeung Wai (46), of 140 Tam Kung Road, fourth floor; Chan Chin-fong (52), of 69 Carpenter Road, sixth floor; Lai Kwong (23), of 63, Tam Kung Road, second floor; and Wong Ting-sau (47), of 13 Parker Street, third floor.
Yeung, Chan and Wong are further charged with carrying an instrument capable of being used as an offensive weapon. Yeung and Chan are also charged with resisting a police officer in the execution of his duty.
- Fight -
Const Or told the court that the disturbance started shortly after 8 pm on August 3 near Kai Tak and he immediately went to the scene.
He said he saw Detective Cpl Lee Pak-hung grappling with Yeung while other rioters punched the corporal.
The corporal fired four rounds into the crowd before Chan knocked the revolver from his hand with a bamboo pole.
Const Or said he tackled Chan and, with the help of another detective, subdued and handcuffed him.
He then turned his attention back to the scene and saw Lai Kwong pick up the gun and try to run off with it.
Const Or said that he chased Lai and fired a shot at the fleeing man but missed. However, he caught up with Lai, arrested him and recovered the revolver.
Hearing will continue on Monday.
Mr A. Corrigan, Crown Counsel, prosecuted.
***
SCMP, 25 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
CONCERN OVER H.K. PROBLEMS
U.K. Conducting Search For Labour Experts
GOVERNOR RETURNS
The British Government is at the moment searching for labour experts to help Hongkong solve its labour problems, the Governor, Sir David Trench, told a press conference at Kai Tak yesterday, soon after his return from London.
In addition to labour experts there was a strong possibility of more technical manpower coming from London to improve Hongkong’s general situation.
A list of names had been compiled by the British Government of people they were interested in. The search, said Sir David, was world-wide.
He refused to disclose the names of those mentioned in his talks with British Ministers.
“There is always a great deal of difficulty in finding just the right chap,” Sir David said.
Hongkong’s problem would come under deeper scrutiny when the British Minister of State, Lord Shepherd, visited the Colony in mid-October, Sir David said.
Lord Shepherd would be making a tour of the Far East.
Britain was seriously concerned over the problems facing Hongkong and there was a great awareness of the Colony’s particular needs, Sir David said.
This became evident during his talks with the Prime Minister, Mr Harold Wilson, the Opposition leader, Mr Edward Heath, the Defence Minister, Dennis Healey, and the new Commonwealth Secretary, Mr George Thomson.
- Sympathy -
Mr Wilson, said Sir David, had expressed sympathy and admiration for Hongkong’s plight and had pledged the British Government’s full support.
It was Mr Thomson who asked Sir David to stay a few days longer in London for consultations. Mr Thomson, Sir David said, had taken over the post only recently and their talks were not detailed.
Sir David said there were 20 to 30 pieces of legislation “on stock” and the progress of these would go ahead as fast as possible.
“We always go on as fast as we can. Our progress naturally depends on many things—money, resources, availability, manpower and so on," Sir David said.
Asked about the rumours of his retiring, Sir David said: “No one told me about it.”
Sir David would not speculate about the future of the Colony but said there was still a security problem here. “Naturally,” he said, “I hope things will get better.”
Asked if he feared a Communist attempt on his life, Sir David said: “I don't know what they will do. They may try, but in any case I am not going to worry about it.”
Sir David reaffirmed that there was no question of withdrawing any of the British troops stationed in Hongkong. “And there are no plans for bringing more troops to the Colony,” he added.
- Thinner -
The Governor looked slightly thinner than when he left three months ago for a well-earned home leave. He appeared tired after his long trip back to Hongkong.
It was an ordeal in itself to face the barrage of press cameras, questions and strong studio lights. Close to 100 reporters and photographers crammed into a small room to listen to the Governor.
Sir David’s plane landed at Kai Tak at about 4 pm. His press conference lasted half an hour.
The Governor was met at the airport by the Officer Administering the Government, Mr M. D. I. Gass, the Commander of British Forces, Lieut-General Sir John Worsley, and the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Hon D. R. Holmes.
Security at Kai Tak was strict. Police and dogs patrolled the area while plainclothes detectives mingled with airport crowds.
Police cleared the outside public galleries shortly before the Governor's arrival. Press representatives were repeatedly asked for identification.
There were no demonstrations at the airport.
Sir David surprised his security guards at Queen's Pier, scene of the official welcome, when he stepped round his car and walked toward the crowd.
Police and reporters scrambled to follow him as he approached the spectators who were held back by a barrier about 30 yards away.
The crowd of about 500 at the barrier and inside the City Hall watched quietly as the Governor waved to them. He then returned to his car for the ride to Government House.
Sir David arrived at the pier at 5.10 pm after an uneventful harbour crossing on his launch, Lady Maurine.
Strict security precautions wore enforced throughout the afternoon, with plainclothesmen on the Governor's launch which was escorted by a police launch.
Plainclothes policemen were stationed on the City Hall roof, the Mandarin Hotel roof, and among the reporters. Other Police stood by at the City Hall car park.
Sir David, wearing a brown suit and a hat to protect him from the drizzle, appeared tanned and cheerful as he stepped on shore to be welcomed back by leading members of the community.
Among those welcoming the Governor were members of the Executive Council, Legislative Council, Heads of Government departments, military commanders, leading representatives of the Anglican and Catholic churches and the Consular Corps.
Many foreign press and cameramen were present to film the arrival for U.S. and British television companies.
Lady Trench, who stayed in Britain to see their daughter Katherine back to school, will probably return to Hongkong at the school's half term.
***
SCMP, 25 Sep 1697 (Page 10)
WELCOME BACK, SIR DAVID
THE great majority of people from all walks of life will join today in welcoming the Governor, Sir David Trench, back from leave; it is to be hoped that recovery from his recent illness is complete. That no violence or demonstrations marred his return was pleasing though the bomb found outside Government House yesterday suggests a few hotheads still want to prolong tension. Sir David however will have noticed immediately that morale is high among the people and that though many mean and squalid acts have been perpetrated resulting in death and injury to innocent people Hongkong carries on as usual. Perhaps the most worrying problem is the higher cost of living though the rise in food prices has been caused less by local disruption than trouble in Kwangtung. If the man in the street could wish for anything however it would be a speedy return to the price levels of six months ago and if anything can be done to speed up supplies of locally-produced vegetables, eggs, pork and poultry to help bring prices down there would be a unanimous vote of thanks.
Sir David has been very well served in his absence by a team of dedicated deputies who have persisted with the policies framed and introduced before his departure. These have enabled the Government to maintain the initiative and contrary to the claims of those who seek to overthrow law and order Hongkong is in better shape today than three months ago and local confidence has not sagged but strengthened. Overseas opinion, however, has suffered, in some cases from malicious exaggerations (particularly by some of our neighbours) and elsewhere from a failure of the world Press to tell its readers of the speedy resilience of the Hongkong man-in-the-street to these adversities. We could well do with a concentrated advertising campaign in overseas newspapers and television to reassure businessmen, importers and tourists that Hongkong, like Johnny Walker, is still going strong. What will also have to be watched in the months ahead is the attitude of foreign investors. No one should have to be reminded that despite the impressive export statistics this year and despite the commendable efforts to sell more local goods locally, industry cannot stand still. It must keep growing. The generous purchase terms for industrial land in Sam Ka Tsuen announced last week may not be enough to bring back investors in their old numbers and if so, more effective incentives will have to be devised to ensure that the economy keeps bounding upwards.
***
SCMP, 26 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
Fake Bombs In Waters Off Lantao
Apart from two genuine bombs, leftist agitators planted a total of 32 fake ones in the Colony yesterday, including four floating objects on the water off Ping Chau Island, Lantao.
The police seized a bomb and a box containing firecrackers and arrested a man during a raid on an unnumbered hut in Yuen Long, New Territories, in the afternoon.
Later in the evening, they searched the Rubber and Plastics Workers Union in Shaukiwan and removed some documents. No arrest was made.
The two real bombs were found on the eighth floor staircase of Block 1, Min Wah Estate in Ah Kung Ngam Road, Shaukiwan, at 7.25 am,
One of the fake bombs was discovered at the foot of the statue of Sir Thomas Jackson, founder of the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, in Statue Square, at 7am.
***
SCMP, 26 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
Villagers Praised For Bravery
BOMB THROWER CAUGHT IN NEW TERRITORIES
A small group. of villagers of Pakshawan (Hebe Haven) braved the danger of bomb blasts to corner two bomb throwers last Wednesday and succeeded in arresting one after a three-hour hide-and-seek in the underbrush.
For their public-spirited action and. courage, they were commended by the Hon K. S. Kinghorn, District Commissioner, New Territories, who paid them an official visit yesterday.
Mr Kinghorn was accompanied by Mr M. C. Illingworth, Chief Superintendent of Police, and Mr
E. B. Wiggham, District Officer of the area.
The village elders told of how shortly after 10 pm last Wednesday, two villagers came upon two suspicious persons hiding inside the village's public latrine. They challenged them. As more villagers joined in, one of the men drew a dagger to threaten the villagers. The men then threw three bombs, and as they exploded, they slipped out of the building.
- Injured -
The man who held a dagger received injuries to his hands from one of the bomb blasts but he managed to escape. The other one dashed down the slope to the beach and hid among the undergrowth. The villagers set fire to the shrub in an attempt to smoke him out. But the undergrowth was too green to burn. However, the man later surrendered when the villagers threatened to “shoot him.”
Referring to the incident, Mr Kinghorn said it was “indicative of the determination of the villagers, and of the New: Territories people in general, to discourage interference with their normal, peaceful way of life by trouble-makers.”
Police last night arrested a man who was wanted in connection with disturbances staged in Shataukok on June 24. He. was charged and will appear in Fanling Court today.
The man was arrested at a teahouse in Shataukok in a surprise operation mounted jointly by the police and the army.
As part of the operation, Gurkha troops carried out a diversionary patrol in nearby Choi Yuen Kok Village which adjoins the border.
While this distracted the attention of residents in the area, a smaller military police patrol made a lightning search of Car Park Street in Shataukok.
-Recognised Man-
They entered a teahouse where two policemen in the party recognised the wanted man who was immediately arrested. He did not put up a struggle.
The two policemen who recognised the wanted man, had themselves been involved in a bomb attack in Shataukok on September 19. Both were slightly injured.
Two men appeared at Fanling Court yesterday, charged with unlawful assembly at Shataukok on July 10.
Ko Mou-wah was bound over to be of good behaviour for three years in the sum of $500 and Tang Chuen-king was bound over for 12 months in the sum of $100.
Ko was arrested in the Shataukok area at 11.30 am yesterday and Tang on September 23.
***
SCMP, 26 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
Fireworks Not Allowed
A Government spokesman said yesterday permission had not been granted for any fireworks displays or the use of firecrackers. Offenders would be dealt with under the law, he said.
He was commenting on left-wing press reports that fireworks displays and the use of firecrackers were to be the highlight of the Chinese National Day celebrations on October 1. Appropriate measures would be taken if the Communists used a vessel for a fireworks display, the spokesman added.
***
SCMP, 26 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
Leave For Mr Gass
The Hon MD. I. Gass, the Colonial Secretary, will fly to Britain on leave tomorrow. He will be away for about four months.
(Photo 1)
(Caption 1: Mr Gass)
A Government spokesman said yesterday that it was agreed before His Excellency the Governor, Sir David Trench, went on leave in June that Mr Gass should take his leave as soon as Sir David returned.
This arrangement did not necessitate any changes in senior appointments in the Colonial Secretariat at the present time, the spokesman said. The Hon D. R. Holmes would carry on as Acting Colonial Secretary during the absence of Mr Gass. Also leaving for Britain on leave tomorrow will be Mr M. D. A. Clinton, the Deputy Economic Secretary. He will return in March.
During Mr Clinton's absence, Mr C. P. Haddon-Cave will act as Deputy Economic Secretary.
***
SCMP, 26 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
Army Protects Border From ‘Irresponsible Elements’
Chinese Troops: Not Hostile
British: troops were stationed along the Colony's border with China not out of fear of an invasion by the Chinese army but to protect the border from attacks by irresponsible elements from the mainland side, a British Army officer emphasised last night.
Brigadier P L. de C. Martin, Commander. Of 48 Gurkha Infantry Brigade, was. speaking at a dinner given at the Shatin Floating Restaurant by New Territories civic leaders for Army and Police personnel.
The hosts were rural committee leaders, Justices of the Peace and leaders of social organisations. They entertained 300 guests, comprising officers and rank and file of 48 Gurkha Infantry Brigade, New Territories police and the Hongkong Regiment.
“There are no signs whatsoever that the Chinese army has any aggressive intentions against Hongkong,” Brig. Martin said. “There. are no more Chinese soldiers on the border than there were at the start of the present troubles in Hongkong.”
There were certainly more soldiers in Kwangtung Province, he said, but they appeared to be preoccupied with internal matters.
He did not believe from what he had seen during the past two months on the border that the Chinese army wanted trouble. “We have seen Chinese soldiers on a number of occasions trying to restrain their militant civilians; we have seen them link arms to prevent crowds crossing the border; we saw one Chinese soldier beaten to the ground by Chinese civilians," he said. "We believe that these civilians have tried, and may perhaps try again, to provoke us into shooting in order to increase tension on the border and bring fear to the people of Hongkong.”
-Patience-
Brig Martin said that despite many provocations and occasions on which shooting would have been justified, both British troops and police had shown remarkable patience and restraint. This was not a sign of weakness, although it was inevitably interpreted as such by the Communist press.
"It is our aim to keep the peace on the border, to allow people to come and work in peace on our side and to try and get conditions on the border back to normal as soon as possible. We think that by our patience and restraint we have had considerable success in this.”
It was a measure of the authorities’ confidence in the situation that the Army's strength on the border had already been considerably reduced and that the police had taken over some of their normal duties again, Brig Martin. said.
“I hope that if things continue to remain quiet it will not be long before the Army can withdraw from the frontier entirely,” he added.
-Appreciation-
Mr A. Morrison, Assistant Commissioner “of Police, New Territories, expressed his appreciation to the New Territories civic leaders for their genuine support of Government in dealing with the disturbances.
He said the bond between police and public had never been closer than it was now. However, he said that some sections of the public appeared to feel that the authorities were “not moving fast enough” in bringing the disturbances to an end.
“We can understand that a little impatience is only natural when we have come so far on the slow but certain road to victory,” he remarked.
In his speech, Mr Pang Fu-wah, Chairman of the Heung Yee Kuk, expressed his gratitude and admiration for the “magnificent performance of duty” displayed by members of the military and police during the troubles.
***
SCMP, 26 Sep 1967 (Page 7)
Weapons Allegedly Found In Two Flats
A woman and 18 men appeared before Judge E. G. Baber at Kowloon District Court yesterday on charges of being found in premises in which offensive weapons and a corrosive substance were found.
They denied charges of being found in Flat B and Fiat C, 7A Pitt Street, second floor, Yaumati, in which 50 sharpened pipes, a large file, four triangular files, six daggers, three fruit choppers, a spring-blade knife, a quantity of goggles and gas-masks and 17 bottles of hydrochloric acid were found on September 11.
Hearing was fixed for October 9.
Mr C. Wong, Crown Counsel, is prosecuting.
***
SCMP, 26 Sep 1967 (Page 7)
Man Imprisoned For 33 Months
Workers Intimidated
A magistrate yesterday jailed a man for two years and nine months on charges of criminal intimidation and possession of inflammatory posters and said that he would recommend that the man be deported after he had served the prison sentence.
Mr T. L. von Pokorny, at North Kowloon Court, convicted Tso Fong (45), unemployed, of 11 Castle Peak Road, third floor, Shamshuipo, of three charges of criminal intimidation and one of possession of nine inflammatory posters.
Tso, was acquitted of a charge of possession of an offensive weapon when Mr Pokorny gave him the benefit of the doubt. He had denied all charges.
Tso was alleged to have threatened three labourers of the Resettlement Department, a man and two women, while urging them to take part in a strike at the Li Cheng Uk resettlement estate office on June 10.
Earlier, Det-Insp Li Fuk-ki, of CID, Shamshuipo, testified that at 4pm on August 26 he led a party of police to carry out a search of Tso's premises. On entering, he said he saw Tso descending from a cockloft. Tso did not give his correct surname, Insp Li added.
Later, a corporal accompanied Tso up to the cockloft and found nine pamphlets, a hook, a chopper, a knife, a triangular file and two chisels.
Chan For, a labourer at the Li Cheng Uk resettlement estate, told the court that on the morning of June 10, Tso told him and fellow workers not to work, and added, “Even if I do not hit you, I will ask someone to hit you.”
Asa result, Chan said, he became frightened, fearing that he might be beaten up. He stopped work in the morning.
Leung Tsui-foon and Wong Ying also told Mr Pokorny that they were intimidated by Tso to stop work on June 10.
Insp G. D. Brooke, prosecuted.
***
SCMP, 26 Sep 1967 (Page 7)
Five Discharged In Intimidation Case
Five youths were discharged by Judge W. S. Collier, at the Victoria District Court yesterday after the Crown offered no further evidence against them on a charge of forming part of an intimidating assembly.
The youths are Chiu Lee-yin, Hon Sheung-pui, Yeung Kin-sang, Fung. Cheung-sang and Wu Ka-on. They had pleaded not guilty.
Chiu was represented by Mr I. C. Bond and Fung by Mr Chu Ka-kin.
Mr Michael Sandor, Crown Counsel, alleged that the group had taken part in an unlawful assembly at the junction of Des Voeux Road West and French Street on August 8.
During: hearing of the case in the morning Mr-Chu's client, Fung, was released after Mr Sandor offered no evidence against him.
In the afternoon, cross-examination by Mr Bond disclosed that it was highly possible that the police had arrested the youths after the incident had occurred.
In view of this, Mr Sandor offered no further evidence against the other four youths.
***
SCMP, 26 Sep 1967 (Page 7)
FOUR REMANDED ON POSTERS CHARGE
A merchant and a student were charged before Mr A. L, Leathlean at Central Court yesterday with possession of 94 inflammatory posters.
So Sun-yuen (32), and So-Yuk-fan (21), both of Flat A, 153 King's Road, ninth floor, are alleged to have had the posters in their home last Saturday.
No pleas were taken.
Both were remanded for seven days in jail custody pending translation of the posters. In the same Court yesterday, two construction site workers were remanded for seven days in jail custody by Mr Leathlean after being charged with possession of, four inflammatory posters.
The defendants are Yip Ying (42), and Mam Kwok-shing (30).
***
SCMP, 26 Sep 1967 (Page 7)
Jail Terms For Union Men
Mr E. Light. at Central Court yesterday sentenced the vice-chairman and caretaker of the Carpenters’ Union to 18 months in jail. Mak Ping (38), and Mo Yung-foon (55), both of the union, 75B, Hollywood Road, second floor, were convicted of being persons in charge of a building where there were inflammatory posters.
The defendants were arrested when the police raided the union’s premises on September 15 and took down ten inflammatory posters.
***
SCMP, 26 Sep 1967 (Page 7)
Police Found Bomb In House
A bomb was found when the police raided a Tsun Wan house, a Kowloon District Court judge was told yesterday.
Det-Insp R. J. Stephenson said the bomb was found when he and a, party of detectives raided 27 Yau Tak Terrace, first floor, on August 12.
Insp Stephenson was giving evidence in the trial of a textile worker, Wong Yun-chi (28), and, his wife, Yip Hop-siu (24), who are charged with possession of a bomb and with failing to report the bomb to the police. They have pleaded not guilty.
The hearing, before Judge Simon Li, will continue this morning.
Mr Michael Wong, Crown Counsel, is prosecuting.
***
SCMP, 26 Sep 1967 (Page 9)
Meal Coupons For Policemen
Government recently issued meal coupons, worth $8 each, to, policemen who are working long hours or are on special duty so that they can have regular meals.
A Government spokesman said yesterday that this system had started after the outbreak of disturbances.
Arrangements for the use of the coupons had been made with restaurants is various districts, including the New Territories, the spokesman said. Each policeman was issued with a coupon daily and it was valid for food and drinks at any time during the day.
***
SCMP, 26 Sep 1967 (Page 9)
Lam Bun's Widow In Taiwan
Taipei, Sept. 25.
Mrs Lam Bun, widow of the radio commentator murdered by Communist terrorists in Hongkong, arrived last night, with her three children, to settle in Taiwan.
The 25-year-old widow told reporters that the Communists had threatened to kill her and her children since they murdered her husband a month ago. She said she was grateful to the Taiwan Government which had offered assistance to her family in starting a new life here—UPI.
***
SCMP, 27 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
Over 2,500 ‘Bombs’ To Date
Since the Communist-inspired terror campaign began, a total of 2,860 suspected bombs were planted in the Colony of which 407 were genuine, a police spokesman disclosed yesterday.
The spokesman said there were reports of 179 explosions and 2,453 false alarms.
A total of 59 bombs were seized in raids and searches, and police were continuing search for bomb factories, the spokesman said.
Meanwhile, police are keeping a sharp lookout for possible “floating mines” following a report on Monday that four objects were sighted off Peng Chau Island. They turned out to be four buoys with inflammatory slogans attached.
There were 11 bomb reports on both sides of the harbour yesterday of which one was genuine. It was found behind the Post Office in Un Chau Street, Shamshuipo, shortly before 5 pm.
The police yesterday searched a number of premises. No one was arrested, but in one or two cases some documents were removed.
Among the premises raided were four separate branches of the Motor Transport Workers’ Union in the Causeway Bay and North Point areas.
The condition of the man and police constable. wounded by a riot gun early yesterday were last night reported to be satisfactory.
The two were wounded when another constable's gun went off accidentally during a police search of a flat in Morrison Hill Road.
***
SCMP, 27 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
REDS TOLD NO FIREWORKS
Applications: For Permit Turned Down
OCT. 1 CELEBRATIONS
The Secretariat for Chinese Affairs, the permit issuing authority, has rejected nine applications from Communist organisations seeking to discharge firecrackers and hold fireworks displays for the October 1 celebrations.
Mr David Lai Kar-wah, the Assistant Secretary for Chinese Affairs, said in a radio interview last night that the applications were rejected because of the ban on firecrackers and fireworks.
Government recently announced that it was withdrawing into safe custody fireworks and firecrackers in order that explosives in them might not be available for making bombs.
Mr Lai noted that Government was not issuing any permits this year and that any attempt to let off large numbers of firecrackers would be dealt with accordingly under the law.
He pointed out, however, that it. would be childish and “unrealistic” to expect Government to arrest anyone letting off a small quantity or even a single firecracker as was evident during the Chinese New Year when people still discharged crackers after the period allowed.
“I won't be surprised if we do get one or two firecrackers being discharged: after all, if the trouble-makers want to buy cheap publicity, this is one way to do so,” he said.
Mr Lai disclosed that the non-issuing of these permits would also apply to the Nationalist celebrations on October 10.
“Any one applying for permission to let off firecrackers now will be rejected in exactly the same terms,” he said.
-Applicants-
Among the left-wing organisations which applied for permits were the All-Circle Preparatory Committee for the Celebration of the 18th Anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the Motor Transport Workers’ Union.
Meanwhile, the Hon R. M, Hetherington, Commissioner of Mines, said yesterday that about 160 tons of fireworks had been collected to date since the ban on carrying or storing of fireworks on September 8.
Mr Hetherington added that an announcement would be made at a later date about the disposal of the fireworks collected.
“Most people handed in their fireworks immediately after the introduction of the emergency regulations banning the public from carrying or storing of fireworks.
“Small quantities are still being received at various police stations and kaifongs in various districts of the Colony,” Mr Hetherington said.
He again reminded the public that it was an offence to be in possession of fireworks not notified to the authorities, He added that there was no intention at present of repealing the legislation.
***
SCMP, 27 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
Tao Chu's Bid To Escape To H.K.
An abortive attempt by Mr Tao Chu, former First Secretary of the Central-South China Bureau, to escape to Hongkong in April was reported by many local Chinese newspapers, quoting arrivals from China, yesterday.
Mr Tao, who has extensive connections with local left-wing businessmen, was lured to Peking as Propaganda Chief and later placed under house arrest in the early stages of the Cultural Revolution.
-Aircraft-
The Chinese newspapers said that Mr Tao planned to escape from Peking in a medium-range aircraft to Wuhan, and then to Canton. His plan also included landing at Lin Tin Island, where his Hongkong friends would pick him up with a speed boat and bring him to the Colony.
The plan was foiled, however, when Red Guards came to know of it, the report said.
***
SCMP 27 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
IDEAS WANTED FOR MAINTAINING H.K.’S OVERSEAS IMAGE
People of all ages in Hongkong are being invited to put forward suggestions on how Hongkong can maintain its overseas image, and the originators of the most interesting ideas on the subject will earn themselves a return air trip to Japan.
The scheme, which was announced yesterday, will take the form of an essay contest.
Sponsored by the Victoria Junior Chamber, the Hongkong Tourist Association and Cathay Pacific Airways, the contest has been organised ag part of the forthcoming Hongkong Week Festivities.
-Publicity-
Speaking at a press luncheon given by the organisers yesterday, Mr Hugh Barton, Publicity Manager of the Hongkong Tourist Association, said that new ideas of the subject of Hongkong's overseas image which resulted from the competition, would be circulated among interested organisations in Hongkong.
Mr Barton added that publicity would be given to the opinions of contestants in the overseas press.
Announcing the contest, Mr Abbas Tyebkhan, President of the Victoria Junior Chamber, said that the Jaycees had decided to act as sponsors because of recent events in Hongkong.
-Tarnished Image-
“The disturbances have tarnished Hongkong's image as a bastion of peace and economic stability in the free world. We in Hongkong are fully aware of the true situation here and of our determination to maintain and improve our environment.
“However, it is apparent that the real Hongkong story is hazy in the minds of most people overseas,” he remarked.
Entry forms can be obtained from the Junior Chamber office, Room 425, Gloucester Building from October 2. They are also available from the Tourist Association's head office in Realty Building and the Association's Information Centres at the Star Ferry, Prince's Building and Realty Building.
Deadline for entries is October 22 and the results will be announced on November 4, during Hongkong Week.
The essays should be from 500 to 700 words long.
Besides providing a return trip to Japan for winners in both the Chinese and English categories, $300 spending money will go to the two winners.
***
SCMP, 27 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Threw Stones During Riot
A man who fled to Chinese territory after a riot in Shataukok on June 24 was arrested by the police last Monday as he was having a cup of tea in a teahouse in Chung Ying Street on the British side of the Shataukok border.
The man, Ng Ching, alias Ng Cheung (42), a hawker, was sent to prison for nine months by Mr H. S. Daniell at Fanling Court yesterday for taking part in the riot. He had thrown stones at the police.
***
SCMP, 27 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Police Raid On Union Described
Ten members of the Lighters Workers’ Union, Kung Yick branch, and a boy were charged yesterday with possession of inflammatory posters and obstructing police officers in the execution of their duty.
The defendants, who appeared before Mr T. L. yon. Pokorny at North Kowloon Court, are alternatively charged with being occupiers of premises where inflammatory posters were displayed.
Det-Insp H, Aitken said that a raid was carried out on August 26 on the union premises at 320, Reclamation Street, eighth floor. The metal gate was shut but a wooden door behind the gate was open. When he rang the door bell, one of the defendants, the boy, came to the door. He identified himself and told the boy why the police were there.
Insp Aitken said the boy immediately ran into the premises and ignored his request for the gate to be opened. He then shouted to the people inside to open the gate and warned them that failure to comply would result in their being charged with obstructing the police.
Eventually the police were forced to break open the gate as well as the wooden door which had been slammed shut by one of the defendants, Chung Kam-ming (27), a sailor, Insp Aitken Said.
On entering the premises, he continued, he saw the defendants sitting on two long benches facing each other and listening to a record about Mao Tse-tung. A search revealed posters displayed on the walls, photographs of the recent disturbances and two loudspeakers facing the street.
Hearing will continue today. Insp G. D. Brooke is prosecuting.
***
SCMP, 27 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
TWO FOUND WITH BOMB JAILED FOR FIVE YEARS
A textile worker and his wife, charged with possession of a bomb, were described by a Kowloon District Court judge yesterday as “the type of creatures that bites the hand that feeds them.”
Judge Simon Li made. the comment when he found Wong Yun-chi and his wife, Yip Hop-siu, guilty.
Wong (28), and Yip (24), of 27 Yau Tak Terrace, first floor, Tsun Wan, New Territories, were each jailed for five years.
Judge Li noted that the accused had come to Hongkong during the 1962 refugee influx. Since then they had been working and now had a family.
-Seriousness-
He said he was satisfied that, the bomb was to be used for no other purpose than to endanger and kill innocent people.
Because the accused had a child, Judge Li said, he wanted to pass a lenient sentence. On the other hand the sentence must be one proportionate to the seriousness of the crime they had committed.
Judge Li ordered that the child be referred to the Social Welfare Department.
The accused were arrested when a bomb was found in their home during a police raid on August 12.
Mr Michael Wong, Crown Counsel, assisted by Det-Insp R. J. Stephenson, prosecuted.
***
SCMP, 27 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Youth Caught With Inflammatory Posters Sent To Jail
A barber's assistant was jailed for 21 months by Mr E. Light at Central Court yesterday when he was found guilty of possession of 18 inflammatory posters and resisting arrest.
Lau Wai-hung (18), protested loudly and angrily when he was sentenced, -
Before passing sentence, Mr Light asked if anyone wished to speak for Lau.
Lau's uncle came forward but Lau refused to let him speak, claiming that he was innocent and did not need anyone's help.
Earlier, Police Corporal Man Ho-wah had testified that he saw Law and three others outside the Central Theatre on September 16.
As he watched them from a private car, he saw Lau take something from a bag and stick it on a wall. He got out of the car and ran towards the group. The four men scattered. He caught Lau who resisted arrest.
Lau said Corporal Man had told “a pack of lies.” He said he did not have the posters, and had not run away.
He was sentenced to 18 months for possessing the posters and three months for resisting arrest.
***
SCMP, 27 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Girl On Posters Charge
A girl and man pleaded not guilty before Mr A. L. Leathlean at Central Court yesterday to a charge of displaying an inflammatory poster in Shaukiwan Road on September 12.
Wan Yin-bing (17), a factory worker, of 512, 26th Block, Chaiwan resettlement area, and Leung So (25), unemployed, of 268, Temple Street, second floor, are alleged to have committed the offence near Hoi Chiu Street. Hearing was fixed for Thursday.
***
SCMP, 27 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
TWO ADMIT UNLAWFUL ASSEMBLY
Mr H. S. Daniell at Fanling Court on Monday bound over two men after they had pleaded guilty to a charge of unlawful assembly.
Tang Chun-king (70), of 55 San Shing Road, first floor, Sheung Shui, was bound over in $100 for one year.
The other man, Ku Mou-wah (18), of 51 Tam Shiu Hang Village, Shataukok, was bound over in $500 for three years.
They admitted taking part in an unlawful assembly at Shataukok on June 10.
***
SCMP, 27 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Denies Possessing Simulated Bomb
A 25-year-old unemployed man pleaded not guilty before Mr A. L. Leathlean at Central Court yesterday to possession of a simulated bomb.
Man Pong-hung, of 5 First Street, second floor, is alleged to have had the simulated bomb outside 85 Connaught Road West last Friday.
The case will be heard today.
***
SCMP, 27 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Man Threw Package Which Exploded In Tram, Court Told
A 42-year-old man who is alleged to have thrown into a tram a package which later exploded appeared before Judge J. E. Hopkinson at Victoria District Court yesterday on seven charges.
The accused, Iu Nam, pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy, doing an act with intent to cause an explosion, resisting arrest, two counts of wounding with intent, possession of an offensive weapon and assault with intent to resist lawful arrest.
Mr F. Addison, Crown Counsel, said that at 6 am on August 3, a tram-car stopped at Johnston Road, near Anton Street, in order to let passengers alight when the driver saw two men approaching it.
He said that one of them was Iu who ignited a package which he was carrying and threw it into the tram and then ran away.
Mr Addison added that the driver of the tram tried to kick the package off, but failing to do so he ran upstairs to warn the passengers to take cover as he suspected the package was a bomb. Shortly afterwards there was an explosion which caused extensive damage to the tram.
Iu is defended by Mr Michael Asome, instructed by David Burgin and Co.
Hearing will continue today.
***
28 Sep 1967 [FBIS]
INCREASED NUMBER OF U.S. SHIPS IN HONG KONG
Peking NCUA International Service in English 2238 GMT 27 Sep 67 B
[Text] Hong Kong--Following the entrance of the U.S. nuclear submarine Barb into the port of Hong Kong on 6 September, another U.S. submarine of the same type, the Scamp, and a number of other U.S. warships have also decked there. This clearly shows that the British imperialists and the Hong Kong British authorities are providing the U.S. imperialists with Hong Kong as a military base for U.S. aggression against Vietnam. This constitutes a serious provocation against the 700 million Chinese and their 4 million compatriots in the territory.
The Scamp tied up in the harbor on 24 September. By 1800 on 26 September there were eight U.S. warships in port, including a destroyer, an escort ship, an ammunition ship, a submarine rescue ship, and a tank landing ship. The entrance of U.S. naval vessels into Hong Kong has been particularly frequent in September.
According to statistics up to 25 September, the visits of U.S. naval vessels to Hong Kong reached a total of 40, the highest monthly record since the latter part of last year. These facts show that the British imperialists are more and more putting Hong Kong at the service of the U.S. imperialists as a base of activities for their var of aggression against Vietnam.
In the past two months a scries of high-ranking military officers of the British Labor Government have come to Hong Kong on various missions.
John J. Hyland, commander of the U.S. Seventh Fleet, arrived in Hong Kong on 6 September, accompanying several U.S. naval vessels and immediately approached T.H.P. Wilson, British naval commodore in charge of Hong Kong, for conspiratory activities. British Undersecretary of State for Defense (Navy), Maurice Foley, arrived in Hong Kong with T.H.P. Wilson on 23 September after talking with him in Singapore. This deserves special attention because it is related to the arrival of Scamp.
These facts prove that the British Labor Party Government and the Hong Kong British authorities have ignored repeated warnings by our government. They openly collude militarily with U.S. imperialism to carry out provocations against the 700 million Chinese people and their 4 million compatriots in Hong Kong. This is absolutely impermissible. With all seriousness we must warn the British Labor Party Government and the Hong Kong British authorities: If you continue going down this road you will only go to your doom.
***
SCMP, 28 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
BIG HAUL OF EXPLOSIVES
Six-Hour Search Of Construction Site
MORE UNIONS RAIDED
Police seized a large quantity of explosives in a six-hour search of a construction site in Yau Tong Bay in Kun Tong last night. The explosives comprised 148 sticks of gelignite and 56 detonators.
A police spokesman said that it was difficult to ascertain at present whether the sticks of gelignite found were part of those stolen from a construction site last month. However, a man has been detained for questioning.
The search of the construction site started shortly after 4 pm and ended about 10 pm. The site was then cordoned off and the search will continue early this morning.
Police also conducted several lightning raids on Communist unions and other premises throughout the Colony yesterday, and detained a number of people for questioning.
A quantity of inflammatory materials, some home-made weapons and gas masks were seized during a search of seven union premises. Ten people found in two union premises in Wanchai were detained for questioning
In the early hours of yesterday, police carried out three separate search operations in the Quarry Bay area. Two flats in Tai Hing House and one in Tai Lung House were searched. No seizures were made, but during the search the police arrested two men for behaving in a disorderly manner,
-Unions-
The unions searched on the Island were the Hongkong and China Gas. Company Chinese Workers’ Union at 9 Water Street, third floor, Western District; the two premises of the Taikoo Dockyard Workers Union at 2A Shing On Street and 169 Shaukiwan Road; the Plumbers Union on the fourth floor of 13 Spring Garden Lane and the Bamboo Scaffolding Workers’ Union on the fifth floor.
In Kowloon, police searched the Moulders Industrial Workers’ Union on the second floor of 417 Reclamation Street in Yaumati and the China Light and Power Company Chinese Workers’ Union at 81 Wuhu Street in Hunghom.
The police also searched two flats in North Point Mansion, King's Road. No one was arrested and nothing was seized.
Another man was arrested by the police late on Tuesday night for possession of five pounds of fireworks during a search of seven premises in Tai Wo Hau resettlement estate, Tsun Wan.
***
SCMP, 28 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
Teenagers Caught Planting Bombs
Two 15-year-old boys were arrested in Tsun Wan in the New Territories yesterday afternoon for planting fake bombs.
The two boys, who were caught outside Block 16 of the Kwai Chung resettlement estate, were put on police bail to appear today at the Tsun Wan Police Station with their parents.
Only three ‘bombs’ were reported yesterday, and all were fakes. They were found outside the General Post: Office in Connaught Road Central, outside No 135 Electric Road, North Point, and in Tin Chong Street, North Point.
***
SCMP, 28 Sep 1967 (page 6)
Three Arrested At Border
Three young men from Wai Yeung, Kwangtung Province, were arrested by the police in the Shataukok area on Monday after they had crossed into British territory illegally, a Government spokesman said yesterday.
According to a right-wing newspaper report, the three were among seven men who had crossed the border after walking for six nights to reach it. The report added that two of the men received injuries as they climbed over the barbed wire barriers on the British side.
***
SCMP, 28 Sep 1967 (page 7)
MR GASS GOES ON LEAVE
The Hon M. D. I. Gass, the Colonial Secretary, left by BOAC last night on home leave.
Before his departure, Mr Gass said the situation in ‘the Colony had greatly improved in the past two months.
Mr Gass will return to the Colony early next year.
When asked whether firecrackers would be permitted by that time, he said smilingly that he hoped so.
The Hon D. R. Holmes, the Acting Colonial. Secretary, saw Mr Gass off at Kai Tak.
***
SCMP, 28 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Treasurer Of Union Jailed
Li Chi-pan, treasurer of the Hongkong and Kowloon Painters’ General Union, was sentenced to 18 months in jail by Mr A. L. Leathlean at Central Court yesterday when he pleaded guilty to possession of 23 inflammatory posters.
Li (34), of 180 Des Voeux Road Central, third floor, was arrested with the posters when police raided the union at 34 Graham Street, third floor, on Friday.
***
SCMP, 28 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Bit Constables In Street
Two police constables showed tooth marks on their fingers and wrists to Mr A, L, Leathlean at Central Court yesterday when a 22-year-old employee of the China National Aviation Corporation appeared on charges of resisting police officers and making an inflammatory speech.
The constables, Ho Kim-wah and Li Tam-ming, said the man, Chen Wing-po, had bitten them in Pedder Street on Monday when they tried to arrest him for making an inflammatory speech in which he allegedly said: “Yellow-skinned dogs, why are you standing there?”
Mr Leathlean acquitted Chen on the inflammatory speech charge because of insufficient evidence. However, he convicted Chen on the other charge of resisting polices officers and fined him $50.
***
SCMP, 28 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
MAN REMANDED
Fu. Yuk-fat (35), unemployed, was remanded to tomorrow by. Mr H. S. Daniel. at. Fanling Court yesterday. on a charge of possession of a home-made bomb and 12 sticks of fireworks in Fu Tei Village, near Yuen Long, on Monday.
***
SCMP, 28 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Four Jailed Eight Years For Rioting
Four men, who took part in attacking a bus in Kowloon City on August 3, were sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment by Judge R. O'Connor at Kowloon District Court yesterday when they were convicted of rioting and consorting with other people to carry offensive weapons.
The accused were Yeung Wai (48), a canning worker; Chan Chin-fong (52), a weaver; Lai Kwong (23), unemployed; and Wong Tin-sau (47), a tailor.
Yeung and Chan were also found guilty of resisting police arrest.
Evidence by the prosecution showed that the four were among a crowd who blocked a bus near Kai Tak at 8 pm on August 3. They attacked the bus, throwing concrete blocks and other objects at it.
Police detectives fired warning shots but this had no effect and they were, in turn, attacked. One of the detectives was struck on the hand and had to drop his revolver.
The third accused, Li Kwong, picked up the revolver and tried to run away. However, he was arrested by another detective. and the revolver was recovered.
Mr A. J. Corrigan, Crown Counsel, prosecuted.
***
SCMP, 28 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Man Acquitted Of Bomb Offences
A 42-year-old man, who was alleged to have thrown into a tram a package which later exploded, was acquitted at Victoria District Court yesterday on charges arising out of the incident.
Judge J. E, Hopkinson said he found some doubt in the prosecution's evidence regarding the identification of the accused. He added that. there was also no evidence to show that the man had tried to resist arrest.
The accused, Iu Nam, had pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy, doing an act with intent to cause an explosion, wounding, possession of, a bomb and resisting arrest.
The offences were alleged to have been committed in Johnston Road on August 8.
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28 Sep 1967 [FBIS]
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SCMP, 29 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
BIG SEIZURE OF FIRECRACKERS
Communist Bookshop In Taipo Raided
POLICE SEARCH UNIONS
About 700 pounds. of firecrackers were seized and a man was arrested by the police during a raid on a Communist bookshop on the ground floor of 30 Fu Shin Street, Taipo Market, New Territories, about 9 pm yesterday.
In another raid on the fourth floor of 15 Tsing Yuen Street, Taipo, shortly before 10.30 pm; a number of inflammatory posters and documents were seized.
A man, believed to be an assistant, village representative of Tin Kok Village, was arrested.
Nine people, including a woman, were arrested in the premises of the Spinning, Weaving and Dyeing Workers’ General Union on the first floor of 35-37 Kowloon City Road in the afternoon when the police searched the place.
"A total of 110 books and 11 inflammatory posters and six illegal newspapers were found.
The police also searched the same workers’ union on the third floor of 354 Un Chau Street, Shamshuipo, about the same time and seized four iron bars, 34 home-made gas masks, 15 pairs of goggles and six posters. No arrests were made.
Shortly after 7 pm, the police searched five premises of the Government Armed Forces and Hospital Workers’ Union in various parts of the Island.
In three of the premises, five men were arrested and some posters were found.
The five unions were situated in the Western District, Aberdeen, Wanchai and Stanley.
-Fake Bombs-
The police also searched the Painters’ General Union on the third floor of 34 Graham Street, Central, about 8 pm, No arrest and seizures were made.
A man was arrested by the police about 8 pm in connection with the placing of bombs outside the Taipo Police Station on September 20.
He was found outside 3 Kwong Fuk Road, Taipo, and some posters were in his possession.
Meanwhile, there were 13 reports of bombs — four on the Island and nine in Kowloon. They were all fakes.
Police yesterday called off their search. of the construction site in Yau Tong Bay in Kun Tong late Yesterday after they had found more sticks of gelignite.
A police spokesman said later that the explosives found were not those that had been stolen from two construction sites last month as they were of different types.
-Fireworks Seized-
He added, however, that two men had been detained for questioning.
Yesterday's haul comprised 282 sticks of gelignite, 15 electric detonators, and 13 fuses with detonators attached, found in a box hidden on the site.
Police also found four safety fuses, each measuring 24 feet, before they abandoned the search about 7.30 pm.
On Wednesday police found 148 sticks of gelignite and 56 detonators, but the search ended at 10pm. The site was then cordoned off and police continued their search yesterday
-Many Detained-
In the morning, police detained 27 men and eight girls and seized a quantity of home-made gas masks, several suspected bombs and some documents when they searched the Hongkong and Kowloon Dock Workers Amalgamated Union at 44 Bulkeley Street in Hunghom.
All those detained were found in the premises by police. The search began at 10am and was completed about two hours later.
About noon, the police arrested three women and a man for chanting slogans and making inflammatory speeches in Public Square Street near Shanghai Street, Yaumati. They attracted a crowd of about 200 people.
Two policemen on beat duty in the vicinity were later reinforced by other officers in a patrol car and approached the crowd to make investigations.
The women and man were arrested after a struggle.
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SCMP, 29 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
Chinese In U.K. Hit By Disturbances
Former New Territories residents now working or doing business in the United Kingdom are suffering from the effect of the disturbances created by the staff of the Chinese Mission in London last month, Mr Wong Yuen-cheung, Executive Member of the Heung Yee Kuk, said yesterday.
Mr Wong said that, in some cases, restaurants run by New Territories people suffered as much as a 50 per cent business decline.
Mr Wong said that the liaison officer in the United Kingdom was not doing enough to make it known that the Chinese from the New Territories were not trouble-makers and should not be singled out for reprisal simply because they were Chinese.
Mr Wong tabled a proposal at the Kuk’s monthly meeting yesterday, suggesting that the Kuk approach Government to launch a publicity campaign to urge the British people to differentiate between trouble-makers and those engaged in legitimate business.
-Misled-
Mr Wong admitted, however, that there were a few who had done something to earn them a bad name.
Mr Wong said that not enough right-wing newspapers from the Colony were sent to New Territories residents in the U.K. to tell them the truth about Hongkong, with the result that they were misled by Communist newspapers which were sent to the U.K. free of charge for propaganda purposes.
The Kuk adopted the proposal to ask the New Territories Administration to double its efforts to alleviate the hardship suffered by N.T. people in Britain.
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SCMP, 29 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
PEACEFUL DAY ON SUNDAY EXPECTED IN COLONY
All indications so far indicate that. Hongkong residents can expect a peaceful celebration of the Chinese Communist National Day.
Slogans displayed outside leftist organisations in various parts of the Colony had no anti-Hongkong Government slant.
The contents of the main posters and banners that decorated left-wing organisations are almost identical, centralised over the theme of praising Chairman Mao Tse-tung. Some Banners carried the words, “Long Live the Chinese People's Republic.”
The major rally for the day sponsored by “all circles,” will be held at the Astor Theatre in Nathan Road, Yaumati, instead of at the City Hall as was the ease in previous years,
It was learned that there would be 75 performances in Ko Shing and Astor Theatres for the week-long celebrations.
More than 40 reels of films marked as having been produced in Peking, were known to have been sent to the Hongkong Southern Film Co from Canton. However, it was not certain whether they would be screened on Sunday before they passed the Government censors. The films arrived from Canton on Wednesday night.
-Invitations-
Meanwhile, several residents have received invitations to attend the group celebrations. However, no invitations have been extended to non-Communist newspapers.
Meanwhile, it was learned that only about 30 residents were to attend the October 1 celebrations in Peking, instead of the 300 to 500 people in previous years.
They were seen off at the railway station by local left-wing elements. on Wednesday morning. It is believed that they were to fly to Peking from Canton as railway communications between the two cities were uncertain.
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SCMP, 29 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
Prison Staff On The Alert At Stanley
The Prison Department staff at Stanley and other prisons will be fully mobilised on Sunday to cope with any possible trouble by some of the 1,070 hard-core leftists jailed for offences arising from the recent disturbances.
Mr T. G. Garner, the Deputy, Commissioner of Prisons, said yesterday, however, that it would be a normal day for the prisoners on October 1, unless the prisoners chose to start trouble. In that case they would be confined to their cells.
Of the 2,200 prisoners at Stanley, more than 1,000 were jailed for breaking the law during the recent disturbances.
Mr Garner added that apart from a few recent cases of young prisoners refusing to take their food, the other prisoners had behaved reasonably well.
He added that on Sunday, and the days before and after, all staff leave would be cancelled as was the practice during this time of the year.
Meanwhile, similar alert arrangements will be exercised at the Laichikok Women's Prison where half of the 143 inmates are those jailed in connection with the disturbances.
Miss. May Kwong Wai-yung, Superintendent of the Laichikok Prison, said the prisoners were most co-operative and had behaved very well.
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SCMP, 29 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
Governor Speaks In Cantonese
(1 Photo)
(Caption 1: Police Detective Cheung Hung-ching being presented to Sir David)
His Excellency the Governor, Sir David Trench, during a visit to the Mongkok Police Station yesterday enquired about the health of two police detectives who were wounded in a mob attack in June.
As the two detectives, Cheung Wung-ching and Wong Yau-tak, were presented to him, he asked, in Cantonese, “Nei ho fan mei ah?” (Are you all right now?)
He thanked them for their devotion to, duty and congratulated them on their full recovery.
The two detectives were wounded when they were attacked by a mob outside the Hongkong and Kowloon Plastic Workers’ Union in Canton Road on the afternoon of June 23.
Sir David later inspected four platoons of the station's riot squads. He also spoke to the platoons’ commanders, including Senior Inspector T. J. Colley, who was wounded in an incident in Takwuling on August 11.
This was. Sir David's second day. of public engagements following his return from leave. Accompanied by Mr E. C. Eates, the Acting. Commissioner of Police, he was met at the station by Mr C. P. Sutcliffe, the Assistant Commissioner, Kowloon, Senior Supt A. E. Shave and Mr Henry Lin, Divisional Superintendent of the station.
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SCMP, 29 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
JUDGE COMMENDS CONSTABLE
Courageous Defence Of Colleague In Attack
A police constable was highly commended by a District Judge yesterday for his courageous defence of another constable against three men wielding cargo hooks while he himself was armed only with a baton and a shield.
The constable was Wong Hing-shan who defended his colleague, PC Lau Wai-yau, against a mob in Queen's Road West on July 9. Both constables were wounded in the attack.
But for PC Wong's intervention, PC Lau might have died, Judge N. R. Wylle observed at Victoria District Court.
One of the three attackers, Lee Hung-fat (43), was found guilty of wounding PC Lau and was jailed for four and a half years.
Judge Wylie also found Lee guilty of forming part of an intimidating assembly and carrying an offensive weapon and added other sentences to run concurrently with the first term.
-Demonstration-
According to the prosecution, the offence arose out of an incident outside the Fukien Middle School, at, 380. Queen's Road West, where police had to curb a demonstration by students when it started to get out of hand.
While the police were trying to make arrests, a group of about a dozen labourers came from the opposite side and attacked the police with cargo hooks.
Lee and two other coolies, who had taken part in the attack, were shot by the, police. He appeared in court with his right arm in a sling.
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SCMP, 29 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Constables Commended For Alertness
A 25-year-old jobless man was acquitted by Mr P. M. Corfe at Central Court yesterday of a charge of possessing a simulated bomb.
Mr Corfe observed that the object the man, Man Pong-hung, was said to have carried, was no more than an open carton containing rubbish and that it had no resemblance whatever to a bomb.
The magistrate, however, commended two constables who spotted the carton for their alertness and for carrying out their duty properly by telephoning the ammunition experts.
The policemen, PC Chan Kwok-fai and PC Leung Kam-shing, told Mr Corfe that they saw Man leaving 85 Connaught Road West with a cardboard box, He placed it on the road and ran.
The constables stopped him and, suspecting that the box contained a bomb, called for ammunition experts.
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SCMP, 29 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Accused Says He Was Threatened
A man accused a police detective at Kowloon District Court yesterday of forcing him to make a written confession to a robbery.
Cheung Tak-wing (24), who faces two charges of robbery with an offensive weapon, pointed at the detective when the latter was taken to the courtroom for identification.
Cheung told Judge E. Baber that the detective had threatened him into writing the statement just before he was formally, charged with the offence.
Another accused, Tsang Yuk-sang (28), who is jointly charged with Cheung, also alleged that he was forced by another detective to write a similar statement admitting his guilt.
Following the allegations, Mr D Walsh, told the court: “We do not wish to pursue these statements in view of other evidence at hand.”
Both men are charged with robbing a taxi driver on August 6 and the driver of a public car for hire on August 14. They denied the charges.
Earlier, Mr Walsh told the court that the modus operandi used in both robberies was similar.
Both drivers were grabbed by the neck and a knife pointed at their throats by one man while the second searched and robbed the drivers, Mr Walsh said.
Hearing will continue today.
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SCMP, 29 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Two Jailed For Four Years
Two teenagers — a boy and a girl — were jailed for four years by Judge T. L. Yang at Kowloon District Court yesterday for possessing a bomb, offensive weapons, corrosive substances and other related offences.
Tsui Sui-lam and Lui Yin-fun, both aged 19 years, were arrested during a midnight raid on a flat at 343 Ngautaukok Road, second floor, on July 29. A bomb, some weapons and two bottles of hydrochloric acid were seized.
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- 1967.9.29英國外交官確認中共領導對8.22英國代辦處被燒很不滿 / First Secretary Ray Whitney Confirms to David Wilson CCP Leadership Strongly Condemns Charging British Chargé d'Affaires（附英文電文 with Telegram in English）
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SCMP, 30 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
CHINESE HOLD H.K. POLICEMEN
Off-duty Constables Cross Border By Mistake
GROUP ON AN OUTING
A Government spokesman said last night that two police constables who crossed the Hongkong-China border by error earlier in the evening were presumed to have been detained by Chinese Army personnel.
The two off-duty constables crossed the border at the Mankamto bridge on a motor-cycle shortly before 6 pm.
Colleagues of the two men told police officers that the incident occurred in the course of an off-duty outing in the New Territories.
The two constables, whose names are being withheld, were out for the day with a group of ten other constables and some friends, the spokesman said.
The rest of the party were travelling in three private cars and the whole group drove through Sheung Shui on their way to a restaurant in the Lokmachau area.
The cars stopped at a filling station in Sheung Shui and the two men on the motor-cycle were seen to drive on ahead.
Apparently they missed the turn-off towards Lokmachau through Sheung Shui and instead drove straight up towards the border. Being unfamiliar with the area, they drove through the check-point on the Indus River, where the barrier was open to admit other traffic. It is believed they mistook the check-point for a temporary road block.
The two men were later seen by police near Mankamto to drive across the bridge over the border.
On the other side of bridge, they were stopped by Chinese soldiers. Police observers saw them apparently explaining their mistake but after some time they were led away.
Their identity was not, however, known until their friends, who had become alarmed when they did not return to Sheung Shui, themselves drove up to the closed area check-point and made enquiries.
The Government spokesman said that no further news had been received of the two men. However, it was presumed that they would be released as soon as it was realised that they had crossed by mistake.
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SCMP, 30 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
CALMER ERA FOR H.K. FORESEEN BY NEWSPAPER
London, Sept. 29.
The absence of Hongkong from the agenda of China's 16th anniversary celebrations in Peking on Sunday served to confirm the assumption that no outright assault on British authority was ever intended, The Times said today.
It seemed more than ever apparent that the explanation of the troubles in Hongkong must be found in the hysterical rivalries of the Cultural Revolution, the paper said.
“That Hongkong can now look to same peace in its relations with the mainland is confirmed by much other evidence: by the villagers on the Chinese side of the frontier obediently tearing down provocative posters, by the stories of work on the pumping stations and preparations for the Canton trade fair, and by the perky hopes of Hongkong businessmen who live by trade with the mainland.
-“Sputter On”-
“While grateful for the relief, the Hongkong Government will know that the trouble will sputter on for some time yet. There is plenty of distaste for British rule in Hongkong and the brittle atmosphere engendered will not immediately die away," the paper said.
“Furthermore, among the younger people some patriotic idealism has been aroused and this may be applauded in the mainland news services if only to reassure China that a generation steeled in revolutionary purity can arise even amidst the noxious bourgeois values of Hongkong." -Reuter.
In Hongkong, meanwhile, police detained seventeen people for questioning when they searched seven premises and leftist union in various parts of the Island last night.
Fifteen of them were found on the first floor of 13 Bowrington Road, Wanchai. The other two were found at 45 Tang Lung Street, ground floor, Wanchai, and at 21A Ching Fung Streel, third Moor, North Point.
The other searches were made on union premises in Shaukiwan Road and on other premises in Ming Wah Estate at Ah Kung Ngam, Chun Yeung Street, King’s Road and Tin Hau Temple Road, No arrests were made at these places.
There were only a few reports of fake bombs yesterday.
During the early morning hours, the police were also active in the New Territories, making seven arrests and carrying out several searches.
Between 1 am and 2.30 am, the police arrested a man and seized an inflammatory document during a search on three stone huts in Yuen Kwong Village near Pat Heung.
Two other men were arrested in an unnumbered hut at Wong Toi Shan Village near Pat Heung, where several items of War Department property, including empty tins, sheets of canvas and carpets, were seized.
-Man Detained-
At Room 221, Block 2, Yuen Long resettlement estate, a man was detained for questioning and a notebook containing suspected inflammatory materials was removed.
The police also searched four rooms in the same estate between 3 am and 3.30 am and five premises in Tai Wo Hau resettlement state. No arrest or seizure was made.
The police reported last night that the man who called at the Kwong Wah Hospital for treatment on Thursday night was not injured by an explosive charge as suspected earlier.
After investigations, the police said, they were satisfied that the man, Mr Lau Ching-yuen, 51, was injured accidently by flames from an upset kerosene stove, Mr Lau, of Fuk Wah Village, Negautaukok, is still being detained in the hospital for treatment.
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SCMP, 30 Sep 1967 (Page 1)
Possession Of Gelignite Charge
A 53-year-old construction worker appeared at North Kowloon Court yesterday on charges of possession of gelignite and detonators.
No plea was taken and the worker, Fung Kwai, of 72 Li Uk Village, Ma Yau Tong, Saikung, was remanded for four days in police custody.
Fung is alleged to have had in his possession 367 sticks of gelignite and 73 detonators at the Wah Hing construction site in Kun Tong on Thursday.
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SCMP, 30 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
Governor's Visit To Border Areas
(1 Photo)
(Caption 1: Sir David gets a close-up view of the border from the sandbagged roof of Takwuling Police Station. Brigadier Martin points out features of interest. Behind him (be-spectacled) is Sir John Worsley. Mr Morrison is at extreme right.)
The Governor, Sir, David Trench, yesterday paid visit to the border area and saw for himself the continuing state of calm that has prevailed in recent weeks along the frontier.
Accompanied by his ADC, and the Commander British Forces, Lieut-Gen Sir John Worsley, Sir David took off from Government House by helicopter and arrived at the headquarters of 48 Gurkha Infantry Brigade in Sek Kong shortly after 2 pm.
There he was met by the Brigade Commander, Brigadier P. L. de C. Martin, the Hon K. S. Kinghorn, the District Commissioner, New Territories, and Mr A. Morrison, the Assistant Commissioner of Police, New Territories.
He was briefed on the border situation in the Brigadier’s office after which he left by helicopter for the Shataukok Main Police Station where he was greeted by the Commanding Officer of the 1st Bn, 10th Princess Mary’s Own Gurkha Rifles, Lieut-Colonel R. W. A. McAllister, Mr D, J. Pearce, Divisional Police Superintendent, and Mr T. J. Bedford, the District Officer, Taipo.
Sir David viewed Shataukok from the police station’s observation tower and heard an account of events in the border town during his absence from the Colony.
He then made a short flight to Gallipoli Barracks near Fanling where he was received by Lieut-Colonel W. D, McNaughton, Commanding Officer of the 1st Bn, 6th Queen Elizabeth's Own Gurkha Rifles.
From the roof of Takwuling Police Station he obtained another view of the border and commented on the peaceful appearance of the frontier. From Takwuling, Sir David went to Fanling where the reception committee included the Commanding Officer of the 1st Bn, 7th Duke of Edinburgh's Own Gurkha Rifles, Lieut-Colonel D. O. O'Leary.
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SCMP, 30 Sep 1967 (Page 6)
Disposal Of Dependants’ Fund
A sub-committee has been appointed to administer the Dependants’ Fund for families of members of the forces of law and order killed or injured during the disturbances, it was announced yesterday.
A spokesman for the Hongkong General Chamber of Commerce, which launched the Fund, said a wider interpretation would also be given to the term “the forces of law and order.”
The Fund now totals $912,000.
Families of six policemen killed during the weekend of July 8 and 9 had each been given $10,000 to meet their immediate needs and the Sub-Committee was now investigating what further assistance should be given to them, the spokesman said. Investigations were also being made about families of others who were killed in terrorist activities.
“It is the Sub-Committee's intention that ready help should be available from the Fund to all those who have suffered bereavement or injury as a result of the faithful discharge of duty in the maintenance of law and order,” he added.
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SCMP, 30 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Refuses To Pay Court Costs
An unemployed man, who was jailed on Thursday in connection with inflammatory posters, was yesterday sentenced to an additional 28 days in prison by Mr T. J. Van Rees at Central Court when he refused to pay $80 court costs.
Leung So (25) was arrested with a woman after they had put up an inflammatory poster across Shaukiwan Road on September 20.
On Thursday, he was jailed for two years for displaying an inflammatory poster. Immediately, he shouted “protest,” and was given another three months for contempt of court. He was, also ordered to pay $80 court costs,
When he was taken before Mr van Rees yesterday, he was asked if he would instruct the prison authorities to release $80 from his property. He refused and was jailed for an additional 28 days.
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SCMP, 30 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Auxiliary Police Inspector Praised
An inspector of the Auxiliary Police Force was commended by Mr T. C. Chan at North Kowloon Court yesterday for arresting two youths who had tried to put up inflammatory posters outside a school.
The officer, Insp Wong Ying-lun, told the court that while driving a car along Oxford Road, Kowloon Tong, on the morning of September 16, he saw two youths putting up posters on the wall of the Ying Wah Boys’ School. He stopped his car, and arrested the youths.
The youths, both aged 16, were jailed for six months.
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SCMP, 30 Sep 1967 (Page 8)
Magistrate Condemns Communist Teachers
A Central Court magistrate yesterday strongly condemned Communist teachers who recruited their pupils to take part in demonstrations.
“My suspicions have been thoroughly confirmed,” said Mr T. J. van Rees after he was told by three pupils of the Pui Kiu Middle School that their teacher had instructed them to hold up a banner with the words “Down with Trench” and to strike cymbals to attract a crowd in Shaukiwan on September 20.
“These young men are not to blame,” Mr van Rees said. "The blame falls on their teachers, the so-called intellectuals who recruit them to do the foul work for them.
“An organisation which recruits 14-year-olds to hold up banners is not one anyone should be proud to be a member of.
“This whole case leaves a foul and nauseous taste in my mouth,” he said.
“He added that he had meant to order that each boy be given 12 strokes of the cane, but in view of what they had told him, the punishment would have been too heavy.
“The boys were remanded for seven days for a probation officer's report.
Two of the boys were convicted of displaying an inflammatory poster and the third was found guilty of aiding and abetting the other two.
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