Operation Save Zimbabwe (or Operation: Save Zimbabwe, Invasion of Zimbabwe) was the Independent States's invasion of Zimbabwe, with the intent of bringing Robert Mugabe to justice, and defusing his political party, ZANU-PF ( Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front). This marks the Independent States' first operation in sub-Saharan Africa. The invasion started late on the night of 9 March, 2010, when the Independent States Second Fleet left its base in Texas. Botswana also assisted the Independent States. The commander in charge was Pierre Smith.