817.00/5243: Telegram

The Chargé in Nicaragua (Munro) to the Secretary of State

19. Department’s 236, December 28, 4 p.m.84 Because of the increased seriousness of the situation and in view of the very great embarrassment which is being caused by the lack of legal authority to hold bandit prisoners, I venture to urge that the Department give further consideration immediately to the question of declaring a state of war in Nueva Segovia. The Nicaraguan Government is now very desirous of taking such action and would do so if I merely said that I saw no objection. The authorities are placed in a most embarrassing position when suspects or prisoners of war bring habeas corpus proceedings and the marines and guardia are being hampered in the actual conduct of operations against the bandits. I feel that they should receive every possible assistance in the delicate and dangerous situation which confronts them.

Munro
  1. Not printed.