Man sentenced to 400 hours for army-style fashion flop

A 22-year-old Bulawayo man has learned the hard way that street fashion choices can carry legal consequences after being sentenced to 400 hours of community service for wearing a camouflage jacket in public - a violation of Zimbabwe's strict laws against civilian use of military-style clothing.

Wilbert Gatsi appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Mr Maxwell Ncube last week following his arrest under the Zimbabwe Republic Police's ongoing "No Camouflage" crackdown. The campaign targets members of the public wearing clothing resembling military uniform, an offence viewed as a threat to national security due to concerns over impersonation.

The court heard that on the night of May 14, at around 9PM, Gatsi was walking along 6th Avenue in Bulawayo's city centre when he was spotted by a police patrol. He was wearing a camouflage jacket and, according to prosecutors, appeared unaware that his fashion choice was illegal.

Prosecutor Mr Joseph Rugara told the court that ZRP officer Nicolas Masauke and his team were conducting a routine patrol specifically focused on enforcing the ban on camouflage apparel. Upon seeing Gatsi, the officers approached, identified themselves using their police IDs, and informed him he was under arrest for contravening laws governing military regalia.

During the hearing, Masauke testified that Gatsi cooperated fully with police and did not resist arrest. "He was calm and seemed not to realise the seriousness of the matter," Masauke said.

In his defence, Gatsi pleaded guilty to the charge and expressed remorse for his actions. His lack of prior offences and willingness to comply with authorities were considered in mitigation.

Magistrate Ncube, while handing down the sentence, made it clear that ignorance of the law is no excuse. "The law is very clear on this matter. Wearing camouflage without proper authority is prohibited, and the reasons are to safeguard public order and prevent misuse of military identity," he said.

Gatsi was ordered to perform 400 hours of unpaid community service. He avoided a custodial sentence largely due to his co-operative behaviour and clean record.

The case serves as a warning to Zimbabweans, especially young fashion enthusiasts, that military-inspired attire - though trendy in many parts of the world - can have serious legal implications locally. The camouflage crackdown remains in full effect, with police urging the public to be aware of laws regulating what they wear in public spaces.