1.
SV PULL OUT TO GV Cars lined up along highway at Beit Bridge
0.08

2.
MV Road signs
0.14

3.
GV & CU Police checkpoint with automatic weapon on sandbag (3 shots)
0.26

4.
GV & CU Rhodesian soldier checking native cart
0.38

5.
SV Cars at checkpoint with armed police and automatic weapons on police vehicle (3 shots)
0.58

6.
GV Removal van with car crossing Rhodesian border into South Africa
1.07

7.
MV & GV Cars leaving South African checkpoint and driving into Rhodesia (2 shots)
1.30



Initials BB/2230



Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: Guerrilla activity and increasing economic pressures are affecting the daily routine of many white Rhodesians. And in keeping with a country virtually at war with its neighbours, there is little opportunity for relaxation and holiday-making within the country. In view of this more and more white Rhodesians are crossing into South Africa to escape the security-conscious pressures of life.

SYNOPSIS: With the worsening of the guerrilla situation over the last few years, Rhodesia has closed its borders with all its neighbours except South Africa. Those wishing to make the journey into South Africa have to travel in armed convoy formation for security reasons. These have become a regular feature, organised much along the lines of a public service with running schedules announced daily.

Security on route is strict, and a constant vigil is kept for possible guerrillas. Those Rhodesians taking a holiday in South Africa are also subjected to certain restrictions befitting citizens of a country crippled by economic sanctions.

Petrol rationing is strictly enforced in Rhodesia, and convoy users are issued with special coupons which enable them to make the trip. There are also foreign currency restrictions which make it tough on holidaymakers, though these are cumulative and those who do not go away one year can claim double the following year. But not all convoy users are holiday bound. Despite the efforts of the Rhodesian authorities to discourage otherwise a large number of whites are continuing to leave the country for good.