Harare Man Convicted for Impersonating Military Intelligence Officer
A 24-year-old man from Highlands, Harare, has been convicted by the Harare Magistrates’ Court for impersonating a public official and unlawfully possessing military camouflage.
Gerald Gumede was found guilty after the State proved that he falsely presented himself as a military intelligence officer attached to the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA).
Also Read: Harare Legal Clerk Arrested After Impersonating A CID Detective To Blackmail Businessman
False Claims of ZDF Recruitment and Accommodation
According to court records, between September 2025 and January 2026, Gumede misrepresented himself to a local lecturer, claiming he was sourcing accommodation for Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) personnel.
He further alleged that he had links within the President’s Department and could facilitate recruitment into the ZDF. In advancing the deception, Gumede collected the victim’s educational certificates and, on one occasion, took him to Josiah Magama Tongogara Barracks, reinforcing the false narrative.
Unlawful Possession of Military Regalia
On 5 January 2026, law enforcement officers conducted a search at Gumede’s residence, where they recovered a Zimbabwe National Army camouflage blanket.
The court heard that Gerald Gumede possessed the military regalia unlawfully, leading to a second charge.
Also Read: Harare Man Arrested for Impersonating a Police Officer in Daylight Robbery
Court Hands Down Prison Sentence
For impersonating a public official (Count 1), Gerald Gumede was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment, with six months suspended for five years.
On the second count of unlawful possession of military camouflage, he received a six-month sentence, with three months suspended.
He will serve an effective 21 months in prison.
NPA Condemns Impersonation Crimes
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) condemned acts of impersonation and the unlawful possession of military regalia, warning that such offences undermine public trust and national security.
The authority reiterated that it will continue to prosecute offenders without fear or favour.
Flipcash is Your Trusted PayPal & Crypto Exchange Partner in Zimbabwe — WhatsApp +263 77 163 9263
The post Harare Man Jailed for Impersonating Military Intelligence Officer appeared first on iHarare News.
