‘I Didn’t Know It Was Illegal’: Bulawayo Resident Convicted Over Camouflage Clothing
A Bulawayo resident has been fined US$100 after being found guilty of unlawfully possessing and wearing camouflage clothing, with the court rejecting his claim that he was unaware the attire was prohibited under Zimbabwean law.
Qhubekani Mkhize (43), from Nguboyenja suburb, appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Golden Muyambo facing charges linked to the unauthorised possession and wearing of camouflage apparel.
The court ordered him to pay the fine by June 15. Failure to do so will result in a three-month prison sentence.
Also Read: Man dragged to court for wearing army camouflage
Defence Based on Lack of Knowledge
In his defence, Mkhize told the court that he had acquired the camouflage clothing while working as a security guard in South Africa and did not realise that wearing it in Zimbabwe was a criminal offence.
He said he continued using the clothing because he was unaware of the legal restrictions governing camouflage attire.
State Seeks Deterrent Punishment
Prosecutor Sibusisiwe Sithole urged the court to impose a sentence that would discourage members of the public from wearing camouflage clothing unlawfully.
She argued that restrictions on camouflage garments are necessary because some individuals use such clothing to impersonate law enforcement officers and commit crimes, including extortion.
According to the State, a strong penalty was needed to reinforce the law and prevent similar offences.
Arrest During Police Operation
The court heard that on May 25, 2026, detectives from the CID Minerals, Flora and Fauna Unit were conducting Operation Iron Fist at Oswell Mine in Umguza, on the outskirts of Bulawayo.
During the operation, officers allegedly spotted Mkhize near the mine’s main entrance wearing camouflage trousers.
After identifying themselves, the detectives questioned him about his authority to possess or wear the clothing. Mkhize reportedly failed to provide any documentation or authorisation permitting him to use the camouflage attire.
Police subsequently arrested him and confiscated the trousers, which were later produced in court as evidence.
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