According to BBC, Virginia Mabhiza's warning came after the flag turned into a symbol of anti-government protests in April when evangelical pastor Evan Mawarire posted a video of himself with it, complaining about the worsening economic situation in a country ruled by President Robert Mugabe since independence in 1980.  

In a statement, she said offenders would be jailed for up to six months or fined $200 or both.

Ms Mabhiza added: ‘Members of the public who engage in any action or activity which involves the manufacture, sale or use of the national flag in contravention of the law are therefore warned that they are liable to prosecution and are liable to imprisonment if found guilty by a court of law.’