‘SANDF uniform is not a fashion item’: Crackdown on civilians wearing military camouflage
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has issued a stern warning to members of the public, fashion designers and clothing manufacturers to stop using or selling its patented camouflage uniform, saying those caught doing so will face prosecution.
The SANDF said it was alarmed by the continued illegal use of military camouflage by civilians for criminal or personal gain, describing it as a serious threat to the integrity of the armed forces.
“The SANDF is urging all members of the public, including clothing manufacturers and producers, to refrain from using, selling or repurposing SANDF camouflage for their personal gain or for criminal activities,” said SANDF national spokesperson, Rear Admiral Prince Tshabalala.
He warned that anyone found wearing or using SANDF uniform items without authorisation would be arrested and prosecuted in terms of the Defence Act.
“The SANDF further reiterates that wearing the SANDF uniform when you are not an SANDF member is a punishable offence,” said Tshabalala. “Anyone who is found using the SANDF camouflage uniform illegally will be prosecuted.”
Crackdown follows viral video of criminals in uniform
The warning follows the circulation of a viral video on social media showing people dressed in SANDF camouflage allegedly terrorising residents and looting property. The SANDF has confirmed that those individuals were not members of the defence force and were not authorised to wear the uniform.
“The people seen in that video were not representing the SANDF in any way, shape or form,” Tshabalala said. “Their conduct is criminal and a gross violation of the Defence Act, which clearly prohibits the unauthorised use of prescribed military uniforms.”
Under the Defence Act 42 of 2002, any person who, without authority, possesses or wears prescribed uniforms, distinctive marks or crests, or performs any prohibited act while wearing such uniform, is guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine or imprisonment for up to five years.
SANDF seeks to protect its image and identity
Tshabalala said the SANDF camouflage is a registered and patented design reserved exclusively for members of the South African National Defence Force or honorary members formally recognised by the chief of the SANDF.
“The SANDF combat dress is not a fashion item,” he said. “It represents service, discipline and sacrifice, and it must be treated with respect. When people wear it unlawfully, they mislead the public and bring the good name of the SANDF into disrepute.”
He said the military was deeply concerned that criminals were using camouflage to gain the trust of communities and carry out crimes under false pretences.
“This not only damages the image of the SANDF but also undermines public confidence in legitimate uniformed personnel who serve to protect the country,” Tshabalala said.
Growing concern over impersonation crimes
In recent years, there has been a surge in crimes committed by suspects posing as police officers or soldiers. Uniformed impersonators have been linked to home invasions, hijackings, kidnapping syndicates and cash-in-transit robberies.
Security experts warn that the availability of authentic or counterfeit military apparel in informal markets has made it easier for criminals to disguise themselves as law enforcement officers.
“The circulation of SANDF and SAPS uniforms in criminal networks is a long-standing problem,” said a Pretoria-based security analyst. “When criminals use these uniforms, it erodes the public’s ability to distinguish between real security personnel and impostors.”
Calls for tighter control of uniforms
While the SANDF has vowed to prosecute those caught using its camouflage, critics have called on the military to tighten internal controls and work more closely with police to curb the flow of genuine uniforms into the black market.
There have been cases where authentic SANDF uniforms were stolen from military bases or found on sale in flea markets and online stores.
Tshabalala urged South Africans to report anyone found wearing SANDF uniforms unlawfully or selling camouflage patterns similar to the official combat dress.
“We appeal to communities to assist us in protecting the integrity of the SANDF by reporting those who misuse our uniform,” he said. “The uniform symbolises our commitment to the Republic of South Africa and must never be used to commit crime or mislead the public.”
Public reaction
The SANDF’s statement has sparked debate on social media, with some South Africans welcoming the warning while others questioned how civilians continue to access authentic military clothing.
“Where are these people getting the uniforms from? That’s what the SANDF should be investigating,” one user posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Others expressed fear that criminals dressed in camouflage were “terrorising townships” and urged law enforcement agencies to clamp down on the illegal sale of military attire.
A warning to offenders
Tshabalala emphasised that the SANDF would not hesitate to act against those found guilty of impersonating soldiers or misusing the uniform.
“The law is clear,” he said. “Anyone caught wearing SANDF camouflage without permission will face arrest and prosecution. This behaviour will not be tolerated.”
He added that the military’s reputation, built on discipline and service, should not be compromised by those who exploit its identity for criminal gain.
“Our men and women in uniform earn the right to wear it through service to the nation,” Tshabalala said. “That uniform must be protected — it is not a costume for criminals.”
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
IOL News