Online Reporter
Moreblessing Ncube
A 22-YEAR-OLD Bulawayo man learned the hard way that rocking military fashion in public can cost you your freedom, or at least 400 hours of it.
Wilbert Gatsi appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Mr Maxwell Ncube last week after being nabbed by police for unlawfully wearing a camouflage jacket. This offence falls under the “No Camouflage” crackdown being enforced by the Zimbabwe Republic Police.
The court heard that on May 14 around 9PM, Gatsi was strolling along 6th Avenue in central Bulawayo wearing his now-infamous camo jacket. He was unaware that a police team was on patrol as part of a special operation targeting civilians seen wearing military-style clothing.
Prosecutor Mr Joseph Rugara told the court that ZRP officer Nicolas Masauke (38) and his team spotted Gatsi and acted swiftly.
“The officers were moving through the CBD on a special campaign called ‘No Camouflage.’ When they reached 6th Avenue, they saw the accused wearing camouflage. They identified themselves using police identity cards and informed him he was under arrest,” Rugara said.
Masauke, who testified during the proceedings, said Gatsi was co-operative but appeared unaware of the seriousness of the offence. He was taken to a nearby police station before being transferred for further questioning.
Appearing calm in court, Gatsi pleaded guilty to the charge of unlawfully wearing camouflage. In Zimbabwe, wearing military-style clothing without authorisation is considered a serious offence, aimed at preventing civilians from impersonating members of the armed forces.
Magistrate Ncube, taking into account Gatsi’s co-operation and clean record, sentenced him to 400 hours of community service. He warned that ignorance of the law is not a valid defence.
Fashion lovers in Zimbabwe should take note. Military fashion might be trendy, but on local streets it can land you in serious trouble.
