CONFIDENTIAL
CR 6/3371/72 IT
J T Masefield Esq
Far Eastern Department
F CO
BORDER INCURSION
RECE
November 1978
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Thompson
RE
CEPCER
बन्द
Acu Texa
W.Elstill
8711
An
We had a minor border incursion on 28 October. Army patrol operating on the western end of the border near the Mai Po Marshes heard firing on the Chinese side of the border at 2.30 a.m. About 30 minutes later, a small sampan with searchlights on the bow and stern came up one of the creeks of the Mai Po Marshes, apparently searching for illegal immigrants. On board were two people, one of them armed. The patrol observed the sampan through their special night vision apparatus but took no action. Their report said that the two men appeared to be wearing some form of uniform. The patrol thought they were members of the PLA, but I think that is doubtful since the PLA are very strictly disciplined and would be unlikely to stray across the border. After the sampan had searched around for a short time, without success, it left the Mai Po Marshes in the direction of Deep Bay.
2.
With so many illegal immigrants at present trying to cross the border there is, not unnaturally, a great deal more activity on the Chinese side as well as on our own. It is perhaps not surprising that we should get the occasional attempt at hot pursuit. Nevertheless, any such attempt carries a serious risk of misunderstanding, confrontation, or even a shooting incident. Consequently, I think it is always worth making sure that such incursions are brought to the attention of the NCNA with suitable expressions of concern. I did so yesterday and attach a brief record of the conversation. will let you know if and when we get a reply.
I
(D C Wilson)
CC
W E Quantrill Esq (HKGD FCO) TJ B George Esq (PEKING)
D C Bray Esq CMG CVO (HK London Office)
CONFIDENTIAL