Bulawayo Man Fined US$100 for Wearing Camouflage Clothing Without Authorisation

BULAWAYO – A Bulawayo man has been fined US$100 after a court convicted him of unlawfully possessing and wearing camouflage clothing, with the magistrate rejecting his defence that he did not know the attire was prohibited under Zimbabwean law. Qhubekani Mkhize (43), of Nguboyenja suburb, appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Golden Muyambo, facing charges related to the unauthorised possession and wearing of camouflage apparel. The court ordered Mkhize to pay the fine by June 15, 2026. Failure to pay will result in a three-month prison sentence.

During the proceedings, Mkhize told the court that he had acquired the camouflage trousers while working as a security guard in South Africa. He argued that he was unaware that Zimbabwean law restricts civilians from possessing or wearing military-style camouflage clothing without proper authorization. However, the court rejected the explanation and found him guilty of the offence. Zimbabwe maintains strict regulations governing the possession and use of camouflage attire, which is generally reserved for members of the security services and other authorised personnel.

Prosecutor Sibusisiwe Sithole urged the court to impose a sentence that would discourage members of the public from unlawfully wearing camouflage clothing. The State argued that camouflage garments are frequently abused by criminals seeking to impersonate members of the military, police, or other security agencies. According to the prosecution, such impersonation can be used to facilitate crimes including extortion, intimidation, and fraud. The prosecutor submitted that a meaningful penalty was necessary to reinforce compliance with the law and deter similar offences.

The court heard that on May 25, 2026, detectives from the CID Minerals, Flora and Fauna Unit were conducting an operation known as Operation Iron Fist at Oswell Mine in Umguza, near Bulawayo. During the operation, officers allegedly observed Mkhize standing near the mine's main entrance while wearing camouflage trousers. Detectives approached him and requested proof that he was authorised to possess and wear the clothing.

According to court testimony, Mkhize failed to provide any documentation or official authority permitting him to wear the camouflage attire. Police subsequently arrested him and confiscated the trousers. The camouflage clothing was later produced before the court as evidence during the trial.

Authorities have repeatedly warned members of the public that wearing military-style camouflage clothing without authorisation is a criminal offence in Zimbabwe. Law enforcement agencies say the restrictions are intended to protect public safety and prevent criminals from masquerading as security personnel. The conviction serves as a reminder that individuals found in possession of prohibited camouflage apparel may face arrest, prosecution, fines, or imprisonment under Zimbabwean law.

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