Vendor Fined US$30 For Exposing Her Underwear During Arrest

Prosecutors at the Masvingo Magistrates’ Court described a charge of indecent exposure brought against a female vendor as frivolous and unworthy of the court’s time.

The case involved 41-year-old Gladies Madhlame, who allegedly exposed her undergarments during an attempted arrest by Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officers.

The prosecutors instructed the police to either counsel Madhlame or impose a fine. Police opted for the latter and fined her US$30.

Madhlame was represented by Collen Maboke of the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights.

Madhlame, a homeless vendor, had been selling tomatoes and fruits in Masvingo while living in the streets.

She came under the spotlight last Tuesday when a male officer grabbed her skirt and began dragging her during an attempted arrest.

In response, she lifted her skirts, exposing her pink underwear, which caused the officers to release her.

The incident, which occurred while her three-year-old son ran after her crying, sparked outrage on social media.

Many people criticised the police for using excessive force against a poor, unemployed woman struggling to make a living amid widespread economic hardship.

Madhlame spent the entire day at Masvingo Central Police Station with her son and was held overnight before appearing in court the following morning.

She usually travels from her home in Chiredzi to Masvingo to sell produce and sleeps on the streets until her stock runs out.

Her case drew public sympathy, including from opposition senators Maggie Chakabuda and Tendeukai Matara.

The senators have provided Madhlame and her son with a house in Victoria Ranch and supplied them with food.

More: Masvingo Mirror