472.03 // Exclusive: Republic Task Force Ambushed in Outer Rim
[Imagery on the Holonet has shown RRS Indigo returning to the port of Drogheda in flames]
At least one Republic warship has been destroyed, and at least fifty Republic sailors are presumed dead, as a result of a surprise attack against an anti-piracy task force operating in the Outer Rim. Sources from within the Republic Navy indicate that a small Republic task force, made up of 3-4 warships, were attacked while operating near the planet of Rettna IV.
Holonews can reveal that this attack was likely conducted by a Hutt-backed piracy cell operating in uncharted space. Sources from within the military have stated that the attack was a response to “unexpected military activity” in a contested border region.
The anti-piracy task force was originally ordered to withdraw to the Core Worlds following Chancellor Malvero’s “mobilisation” directive several days ago. It is not currently known why the task force was continuing to operate in the Outer Rim, at least 2000 parsecs from the nearest support fleet.
The Republic Navy has not commented on this article, but has placed an embargo upon further comment by Holonews due to “ongoing operational sensitivities”.
While making no reference to the military activity, veteran “war-hawk” Senator Hammond Peramis of Duneeden has led public criticism against Chancellor Malvero for “abandoning the Republic’s borders in its time of need”.