The South African National Defence Force has raised concern about the ongoing illegal use of its patented camouflage uniform by civilians. The military said it has noted with alarm the growing number of people using SANDF combat dress to commit crimes and mislead communities.

In a statement on Wednesday, the SANDF said the camouflage uniform is a registered item reserved only for authorised members of the defence force and honorary members who have been formally appointed by the Chief of the SANDF.

The statement follows the circulation of a video on social media showing people believed to be involved in criminal activities while wearing SANDF camouflage. The defence force said those individuals were not members of the SANDF and were not authorised to wear its uniform.

“The SANDF can confirm that the video clip which has gone viral on social platforms depicting persons believed to have been thieving and terrorising communities wearing SANDF camouflage uniform artifacts were not authorised to use the patented camouflage uniform nor were they representing the interest of the SANDF in any way,” the statement said.

The defence force reminded the public that the use of SANDF uniform without permission is a criminal offence under South African law. The Defence Act 42 of 2002, Section 104, clearly outlines the legal consequences for anyone found guilty of wearing or possessing the SANDF uniform unlawfully.

The Act states: “Any person who, without authority, possesses or wears prescribed uniforms distinctive marks or crests, or performs any prohibited act while wearing such uniform or with such uniform, distinctive marks or crests, is guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding five years.”

The SANDF urged all members of the public, clothing manufacturers and retailers to stop producing, selling or using the camouflage for any reason other than authorised defence force purposes.

“The SA National Defence Force is urging all members of the public, including clothing manufacturers and producers to refrain from using, selling and or repurposing the SANDF Camouflage for their personal gain and committing criminal activities,” the statement said.

The defence force said anyone caught wearing the uniform without authorisation would be prosecuted. The SANDF appealed to communities to report any illegal use or sale of military camouflage to the nearest police station or military base.