Chicago native fighting Zimbabwean crisis

HARARE, Zimbabwe, June 19 (UPI) -- U.S. Ambassador to Zimbabwe James McGee says he is attempting to shed light on atrocities taking place in the African country.

McGee said he and his crew have filmed supporters of Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe as they violently gather villagers and force them to chant in support of the controversial leader, the Chicago Tribune said Thursday.

"I've been sent here to do a job and I'm not interfering in the internal politics of this government," McGee said. "We're just trying to cast some light on a terrible situation."

Mugabe threatened last month to force McGee out of the country if he continued his outspoken antics and the U.S. official nearly had his car set afire with his staff inside by Mugabe supporters, the Tribune said.

McGee told the Tribune he is dedicated to continuing his take-no-prisoners approach to bringing attention to the crisis facing Zimbabwe.

"It's my job to get this type of treatment," he said.