On October 30, 1913, Gandhi reached Charlestown with 200 men and telegraphed the Minister of Interior to enquire into the forcible vaccination of women prisoners. He also reported that 5,000 Indians were affected in the strike area, with 4,000 being led and supported, including 300 women and 600 children. Additionally, 300 marchers led by Thambi Naidoo and 200 by Albert Christopher left Newcastle, and some 150 Indians of Ballengeich Colliery were arrested.