839.00/2131: Telegram

The Consul at Santo Domingo (Edwards), temporarily in charge of the Legation in the Dominican Republic, to the Acting Secretary of State

Your April 24, 4 p.m. Based upon military reports covering period since January 1 banditry situation greatly improved. Disturbances are confined to small territory between San Pedro Macoris and Hato Mayor Seybo. On January 19 force of 25 marines and 40 national guards was attacked by 250 bandits near Las Guana Banos with result 7 bandits killed, no casualties among marines. Another force 11 marines attacked by 20 bandits January 31st. These are only attacks by bandits since the first of year and the efforts of the 1700 marines in that region have since been directed towards seeking out and dispersing small bands. It is estimated that there are no more than 300 bandits in the region who are without organization and short of ammunition; they have no political aims and are considered as outlaws and fugitives from justice.

Edwards