During the trial, members of the European and Chinese
communities were available in Court in order to watch the interests
of the accused and to assist them in the conduct of their defence,
but the accused refused to take advantage of any offered assistance.
Eight of the accused were found guilty of the charges
preferred against them and they were sentenced to imprisonment with
hard labour for terms varying from one to ten years. In the case of
those accused who actually threw bombs, or who had bombs or explo-
sive material in their possession or who were actively associated with the bomb-throwers, an additional punishment of fifteen strokes
of a cane was awarded. This punishment was imposed under the per-
sonal supervision of the Government Medical Officer who reported that
the punishment was not excessive.
The prompt and efficient manner in which this very serious
outbreak was handled by the Police authorities and the punishments
awarded in the case of those found guilty have had a most salutary
effect. It is realised that had the attack been permitted to
develop the casualty list would have been heavy. The work of the
Chinese on this island, I am glad to report, continues to proceed
under normal conditions.
Representatives of the large body of
reputable Chinese workers have expressed the gratitude of the Chinese
community and have promised to assist in preserving order. The
prestige of the Administration has been maintained, and I believe
that it is unlikely that an outbreak of similar magnitude will arise.
for many a day.
(Sgd.) W.A. NEWMAN.
ADMINISTRATOR.