TNAG-0016-FCO40-52-Kowloon-disturbances-1968 — Page 85

CONFIDENTIAL

Recommended Action

27.

From a study of the situation to date and the relative success achieved in recent cases the following measures are recommended:-

(a)

(b)

(c)

(a)

(e)

(f)

(g)

(h)

If the situation is to be brought under control, counter measures must be of an offensive nature. Every effort must be made to neutralize the localized cells and remove, at least, senior members from the community. Large seizures of explosives are unlikely, but any lead to factories or stores must be exploited to the fullest extent. Any further links into central policy directives, whether or not to members of sensitive organizations, must be considered seriously with a view to action;

To achieve this object, full use should be made of the powers of detention under the Emergency Regulations. Normally, where a criminal charge can be laid this should be done. However, it has already been established in recent cases that admissable evidence is often not available against senior members of a group and in others a charge would preclude maximum dividend. In such cases, it is recommended that a case be made out for detention for 12 months under Regulation

Four such 31 of the Emergency (Principal) Regulations. cases are at present ponding. This will remove offenders from the scene for the time being and, at the expiry of the detention pericã, the position can be reviewed in the light of prevailing circumstances. Deportation may be then considered. To cater for any appreciable number of detainees, it is suggested that initial preparation be made for the Provisioning of Chatham Road Compound for this purpose;

In view of the increasing commitments of the Bomb Investigation Unit, it is suggested that its function should be confined to the neutralization of cells, the detection of factories or stores and any immediate direct intelligence dividond leading to controlling agencies. Any further interrogation or enquiries likely to provide a general intelligence dividend should be undertaken by Special Branch;

To circunvent difficulties in physical environment the full facilities of V.R.C. should be available for interrogation of selected prisoners by Investigation Unit personnel, subject to clearance with D.S.B.

Interrogation of all arrested persons must be thorough and, where necessary, vigorous in order to identify accomplices, and sources and to obtain maximum exploitable information from the prisoner.

Full utilization must be made of available resources in developing information concerning bomb activities and conducting field enquiries;

Districts must maintain close liaison with the Unit în all matters concerning bombs so as to avoid jeopardizing operations by duplication of action;

Preventive action should continue and be intensified, Ambushes, special patrols and selective action against left- wing premises provide a media for such action, particularly in areas where bomb incidents are prevalent.

CONFIDENTIAL

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