AUSTRALIANS WARNED TO LEAVE VOLATILE ZIM!!

http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2008/06/26/1214073398754.html

Australians in Zimbabwe have been urged to leave under an upgraded travel advice by the Government which warns the political crisis may escalate in the coming weeks.

The advice, issued today by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, also says Australians should not enter the country because the volatile security situation could quickly worsen.

A department spokeswoman said there are 841 registered Australians in Zimbabwe, including 602 in Harare and 77 in Bulawayo. The Australian High Commission is maintaining regular contact with them.

"We strongly advise you not to travel to Zimbabwe at this time due to the high level of election-related violence in many areas, the high level of criminal activity, the absence of the rule of law, and deteriorating economic conditions which could lead to civil unrest at any time," the advice says.

"This includes visits to national parks and Victoria Falls.

"If you are in Zimbabwe and concerned for your safety, you should consider leaving if it is safe to do so."

The advice, which lifts Zimbabwe into the most dangerous category of country alongside eight other states such as Iraq and Afghanistan, says any Australians who do go to Zimbabwe should register their travel.

"The security situation could deteriorate quickly and without warning, and Australians could be caught up in violence directed at others," the advice says.

"In these circumstances, departure options may be severely limited... The ongoing political and economic crisis has made the situation very volatile, in both rural and urban areas."

For further information: http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/Zimbabwe

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