1.
Severals shots on the fire (the security of the blast of the bombs opposed to come to close)


2.
Shots on General KOUPRASITH ABHAY Military Governor of Vientiane. Severals shots on the T 28 wreckage. Firemen in action.




Initials


EX: JAPAN SYNDICATED TO NHK. TBS. KYODO AND NET(4) STATION
SINGAPORE DID NOT REQUIRED AS A RESULT OF CABLE ENQUIRY.
NOTE: Please see Reuters Newsagency wire service for detailed and latest information, as many facts are unavailable at time of film despatch.

Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: Sometime between 9 and 10 AM on the morning of Sunday 24/1/65 an initial explosion occurred at Vientiane's Military Airport, which is situated directly beside the civilian Airport.

At time of writing it is not clear whether the disaster was due to an act of sabotage, or if it was an accident.

In the subsequent series of explosions and fires that broke out there are known to be 9 T.28 Lao Air Force aircraft completely destroyed (please confirm latest count). In addition 1 helicopter standing near the T.28's was extensively damaged. At least 3 or 4 other aircraft were also damaged or destroyed, including 1 or 2 helicopters.

Soldiers barracks situated on the perimeter of the tarmac were very badly damaged.

The tarmac was torn up and twisted metal was strewn in every direction for an area of approximately 200 yards square - that is 200 yards X 200 yards. Parts of aircraft were spread over the entire area, and practically the only recognisable sections were several engines from the T.28's. Only on T.28 was left in anywhere near its complete original form.

The remainder were totally destroyed.

In a building on one side of the tarmac ammunition was housed, and exploded continuously for about 11/2 hours. In the same building bombs were also stored, and it was feared on fire would reach them before it could be brought under control. Several fire engines were brought to the scene, and by midday the worst was under control.

AP and UPI should also have up to date accounts of occurrence, with explanations, &c.