ARTILLERY SHELL FORT.

British troops yesterday occupied Belleek, in Ulster territory, which had been in the hands of Republicans. The Republicans have now been cleared out of Ulster.

Explosive shells were fired at Belleek fort, which was practically destroyed. The Republicans retired directly the artillery opened fire. One man of the Lincolns was wounded. Casualties to the other side are unknown.

The following official report on the operations was issued last night from the British Military Headquarters:

“Orders were received to discover whether forces from the Free State were still in occupation of Belleek. Strict orders were issued that Free State territory was not to be entered unless fire was opened on the troops while in Ulster territory. Means of water transport were arranged, as 150 yards of road entering Belleek from the south were in Free State territory. The infantry were divided into two columns, one operating on each side of Lough Erne. Armoured cars were sent on ahead of these columns to reconnoitre. These were fired on from Free State territory while still in Ulster territory. The infantry then advanced under brisk fire from the north. The artillery shelled the fort, also a ridge to the north, from which fire was brought to bear on the northern column and Cliffe House, which was the headquarters of the forces occupying Belleek. The fire was accurate, and the enemy retired at once. The advancing columns entered Belleek. Our casualties were one of the Lincoln Regiment wounded. Those of the enemy are unknown, as no wounded were recovered.”