South Africa withdraws a journalist's exit order

The government withdrew charges Monday that Nat Gibson, a United Press International correspondent, violated security laws by reporting the deployment of soldiers during a race riot last year.

The case -- withdrawn by prosecutors without giving reasons -- was the first of its kind against a foreign correspondent under the country's national-security laws, although local reporters have faced similar accusations.

The withdrawal of the case follows an expulsion order served last week on another American reporter, giving her 14 days to leave the country. No reason was given.