868.00/6–3048: Telegram
The Chargé in Greece (Rankin) to the Secretary of State
1211. According Greek General Staff following are total executions pursuant sentence by special courts martial: first week June 31; second week 23; third week 29; fourth week 64; total 147. (Last week includes 20 naval and 6 Ladas executions reported Embtel 1184 June 27.) Above figures unclassified except for source.
Embassy so far unable obtain exact figures on recent executions under jurisdiction Ministry Justice (December 1944 and other criminals). Minister Melas informs me that when he assumed office he warned both Prime Minister and Foreign Minister he would not proceed conduct executions at same rate as his predecessor. As apparent result this new policy executions have almost ceased, only four being officially confirmed and three more unofficially known to have taken place. Despatch will follow.