M.G, PRATA [????-????]

Gunner G.M. Prata, Portuguese No 6 Company, HKVDC.

During the Japanes search for a radio in Argyle Street POW camp, Private Prata was taken out of camp on 1st July 1943.

From a statement by Tse Dickuan, 29.9.45:

"About July 1943, Private M. Prata, HKVDC, was arrested on a charge of espionage.  He was taken to Tanaka’s residence No.161 Argyle Street and there tortured to death by the water torture.  This was administered by two Japanese officers of the Gen­darmerie, attached to the Kowloon Police Station, Boundary  Street.  Tanaka, Niimori and Hasegawa were present.  This was witnessed by a maid servant (name forgotten) who informed me of this the following morning.  The death of Prata was officially ascribed to “Malaria”.  I am not sure of the location of the deceased’s grave. "  

Addendum 29^th September 1945: Re the death of Pt M. Prata, the girl who witnessed the deed and later informed me is named Yuk Chun (玉珍).  This girl was employed, together with another named Ah Din (亞典) as a serving maid at the residence of Lt Tanaka, No 161 Argyle Street, Kowloon.  Ah Din was later transferred to the Kitchen and her place was taken by one named Poon Kit Chun (characters).  The last named girl’s father is the branch manager of Messrs. Singer Sewing Machine Co, Yaumati."

A statement by Dr Saito, 5.10.45: “On September 9^th 1944 I was called to Col. Tokunaga’s HQ below Argyle Street Camp to attend Gnr. Prata at 5 pm.  His condition led me to suspect Malaria and I gave him Aspirin.  On the 10^th, Gnr Prata was escorted to Garrison HQ by Lt. Tanaka and there confined.  He steadily got worse and finally died on the 14^th September 1944.  He was buried in the Bowen Road area.  I know the grave also the location and could identify it.”