CONFIDENTIAL
2
4.
Illegal immigration has been an even greater problem in recent months. The totals arrested and repatriated (i.e. figures which can be quoted openly) in each month so far this year have been :
5.
January February March
April
1,886
2,567
6,445
8,352
When these figures are compared with 8,192 for the whole of 1978 (itself a high figure), you can get some idea of the massive influx which is taking place. We normally expect an arrest to evasion ratio of 1 - 4. Even if, as we believe, the present ratio is better, because of more intense patrolling by the army and police, we must still be absorbing an alarming number of new arrivals. Precisely how many will
become clearer as they register a process which normally takes place within 3 - 4 months. This too is something we must raise with the Chinese when, and if, we have talks.
6.
Coupled with this increase in numbers has recently been increased signs of determination by illegal immigrants to avoid capture or repatriation. Normally illegal immigrants are arrested by military patrols without too much difficulty. Twice during the past month, however, there have been incidents where illegal immigrants have used violence. On 8 April an NCO was stabbed by a penknife. On 22 April some 11 illegal immigrants, armed with sticks, attacked a three-man army The patrol patrol which was attempting to arrest them. leader suffered head injuries and the illegal immigrants escaped. These incidents may be only a reflection of increased numbers. There is, however, always the less happy possibility that news is getting round in Guangdong that our patrols are very restrained in their own use of force and that violence helps to get past them.
7. this.
The army are keeping a very careful watch on They may have to increase the size of their patrols. They have also been given permission to use tracker and guard dogs in conditions where they think these might help. They have, of course, already got permission to use force, including firearms, in self defence if strictly necessary; but each patrol carries only one rifle with the magazine kept in the soldier's six of pocket. Some dogs have already been trained; them will be brought into use immediately. They will
wear muzzles.
/contd.
CONFIDENTIAL