Dutch naval expedition to Acheh (December 19–25) was a short‑term riverine campaign undertaken by the Dutch Navy (Colonial) in the interior of Acheh in the early nineteenth century. The operation involved the barks “Zeven Provinciën” and “St Eustatius”, the detachment of Captain‑lieutenant Smit, and the command of Captain Van Oyen. Its objectives were to suppress rebel activity, protect sugar plantations, and secure river passages such as Cimbia creek and Wironje creek.
Chronology
- 19 December: Dutch forces entered the interior, anchoring near Antonaa and Cimbia creek.
- 22 December: Orders issued for patrols of sugar plantations (e.g., “West‑Souburg” sugar fields) and reconnaissance of creeks.
- 23 December: Detachment reached Cornelia Jacoba plantation; rebel activity reported.
- 24 December: Attempted landing at Peereboom plantation; plantation burned.
- 25 December: Failed landing at Wikkie creek due to mis‑communication; capture of a Surinamese border detachment at Beresteyn plantation.
Outcome
The expedition achieved limited success in destroying rebel strongholds but suffered from coordination failures, notably the ill‑planned landing on 25 December that resulted in casualties and the loss of a “tent‑boat”.
See Also
- Captain Van Oyen
- Captain‑lieutenant Smit
- [[Haringman