Operation Dudula member jailed over pants

“The cop just grabbed me and put me in cuffs…”

This is how Newcastle-based Operation Dudula member, Lucky Mdlalose described his arrest on the afternoon of May 3. His camouflage pants were what got him in trouble with the law.

Mdlalose said he was standing near a shopping centre in Osiweni on the day, in conversation with others, when a police official approached. Mdlalose said he was then accused of impersonating a SANDF (South African National Defence Force) official and arrested.

Despite his explanations, Mdlalose was detained overnight in the oSizweni holding cells, in what he described as ‘intolerable conditions’. A full 24 hours after being arrested, he was released from police custody and now intends to take legal action against SAPS.

SANDF spokesperson, Brigadier-General Andries Mahapa confirmed it is in fact illegal to wear military uniform if you are not in the force.

For the full report, read this week’s edition of the Newcastle Advertiser.