How did the British capture Bardia in January 1941?

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Map showing the British and Axis military campaigns in North Africa during World War II, with labeled troop movements, key battles, and shifting front lines from Egypt across Libya to Tunisia along the Mediterranean coast. The map includes arrows and dates marking advances and retreats by both sides, and highlights major turning points and defensive lines. — North Africa campaigns Military drives, defensive lines, and key battles during the North Africa campaigns of World War II, 1940–43.

Following the British victory at Sīdī Barrānī in December 1940, the remnants of the Italian forces retreated across the frontier into the coastal fortress of Bardia, where they were promptly encircled by the 7th Armoured Division.12

The British lacked the necessary infantry to immediately capitalize on the Italian demoralization, leading to a three-week delay while the 6th Australian Division arrived from Palestine to support the advance. The assault on Bardia was launched on January 3, 1941, with 22 Matilda II tanks leading the way. The Italian defense collapsed quickly under this pressure, and by January 6, the entire garrison of 45,000 men had surrendered.21