824.504/5–1947: Telegram

The Ambassador in Bolivia (Flack) to the Secretary of State

confidential

481. ReEmbtel 478, May 17.20 Catavi Pulperías opened Saturday but operations not resumed as company felt insufficient guarantees to warrant return many top personnel fled to Oruro.

Effort made Sunday 6 a.m. evacuate remaining 30 top employees and families. Special train stopped by armed mob. Occupants arrested and held 2 hours by strikers before women and children permitted continue Oruro. Nine men including five Americans held virtual house arrest in homes and unable leave. Late last night managed to seek safety in army barracks. Company continuing efforts evacuate all but three who [chose] to remain.

Orders issued yesterday three additional regiments move into area cancelled last night. Hochanwe in disposition troops. Ministers Labor and Government21 travelling to Catavi today. Deringer to join party Oruro. No announcement yet made but Embassy believes company to go through with plan close property, pay off all workers and rehire approximately 85 percent workers on new basis. Possible one month delay resumption operations. Government attempting pressure to force immediate resumption. Directors adamant before special session Cabinet last evening and appeared determined.

Flack
  1. Not printed.
  2. Alfredo Mendizabal and Luis Ponce Lozada, respectively.