TNAG-0016-FCO40-52-Kowloon-disturbances-1968 — Page 84

23.

CONFIDENTIAL

Communist Sinco

Where cells or units have boon overtakon, investigations have traced the sources of control to wions, and in some cases to C.P.G. banks. In two cases definite links between "Fighting Groups" and identified mombers of the staff of a particular bank have been established. Schools have also provided breeding grounds for young offenders. strong police action was taken against union and other premises control has become even more localized with cells and wits operating in their aim

The leader or a "liaison officer" has become the link geographical areas.

Apart from with the local branch of the union or other organization. general directives there is no evidence of major central control or cohesion of specific operations.

240

Control by local colls, a classical Communist method of operation, has tended to localize action. In earlier cases, there was evidence that arrested persons had carried their bombs relatively long distances, but recent arrests have indicated that groups or individuals operate mainly within close proximity of their homes albeit sometimes newly established in the area.

25.

ALE

Thus, it seems that in so far as investigation of terrorist groups is concerned the highest targets are likely to be local branches of unions, banks, school, etc. The effective interrogation of the echelons at this level may well provide an insight into central policy directives, but is unlikely to reveal evidence of firm central control.

Problems cf Investigations

26.

The examination outlined in the foregoing paragraphs has revealed These may be the extent of the problem and difficulties in investigation. summarised as follows :--

(a) the bomb campaign comprises the major issue in the

confrontation at present;

(b) apart from the serious threat to life and property, the

continuance of the campaign precludes a return to any semblance of normality and poses a serious threat to public confidence;

(c) whilst there is a variance in methods, organizations, areas, times, targets, etc., a close examination of past cases, interrogation of prisoners and field investigations can produce information which may be exploited;

(d) however, because of the fanatical nature of the terrorists,

hostile and lengthy interrogation is necessary to obtain such information and to achieve this maximum use must be made of legal powers of summary doetention under the Emergency Regulations, - at present difficulties in physical environment in which interrogations take place are experienced;

(e) at present, there is a serious lack of reliable information

There has been considerable concerning terrorist activities. increase in the number of arrests or reports by members of the public, but the potential of the private citizen - the eyes and ears of the total non-Communist population, including the semi-criminal element, is not being realized; (2) the evidence of numerous small localized cells and the lack

of central control and organization, presents problems in detection since every unit must be attacked separately clearly, by numbers alone, extensive counter operations are necessary.

CONFIDENTIAL

15.....