The
Chinese authorities assert that they paid £1,000 as a preliminary ransom
whereupon the bandits demanded an additional £9,000 and 500 pistols … Major
Takahashi, the Military Attaché is leaving by plane tomorrow morning. He has advised the Chahar authorities to pay
the £10,000 rather than experience difficulties with the British Government.
Wednesday 14th August
– The Western Mail & South Wales News:
Japanese
“Ultimatum” to Chinese Commander
CHANGKIAKOW [Kalgan]. A
further attempt to secure the liberation of Mr Gareth Jones, the British
journalist, kidnapped by Chinese bandits in the Chahar Province 16 days ago was
made at this outpost today. Major Takahashi, Japanese Attaché in Peking,
and Col. Matsui, Chief of the Japanese Military Mission, met Chang Chu-chang,
commander of the Chahar Peace Corps, and said in effect: “We advise you
in the strongest terms to find Jones by putting up the ransom.” When
Chang Chu-chang replied, “We have already made an exhaustive search,” Major
Takahashi said: “Now look in the right place.”
The significance of this Japanese ultimatum was thoroughly understood. The
bandits holding Jones wore Peace Corps uniforms. Therefore, either
directly or indirectly, Chang Chu-chang’s organization must know where Jones
is. The Japanese authorities are confident that Jones will soon be
delivered at Kalgan.
|
The
Press Breaks the News of the Capture.
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