[1] Operation Long John was an attack on a guerrilla transit camp at Mapai and staging post identified as Chicualacuala.

It was necessary to introduce a reconnaissance force into the area in order to determine the exact location and size of the camp.

The new government of Mozambique was willing to provide sanctuary for the Patriotic Front insurgents, but they would not allow them to travel throughout the countryside in armed groups.

Their weapons were maintained and guarded by FRELIMO soldiers, and issued immediately prior to their infiltration into Rhodesia.

The plan involved a mechanised assault across the border utilising armoured cars, trucks, and several buses.