Long list of sentences is what happens when someone gives up military service in China

But that is not the case for Zhang Moukang, a university student from the southern province of the country.

A story posted on the freedom of people in the army relates the sentence he has received because he no longer wanted to serve.

He has faced eight sentences involving a two-year ban on foreign travel; travel within China through airport, long-distance trains or buses; buying real estate; borrowing or insurance; opening a business; and enrolling or studying in college or high school.

Zhang, for whom no deadline was given, will not be allowed to take over a government job, nor a temporary worker. And that includes every government company in a country where much of the industry is run by the state.

There will also be a financial cost, a fine of $4,000 plus the compensation of the $3,750 military for expenses made during its short time as a soldier, including “a political examine”, its medical examination, travel and living expenses, and bed and clothing.

Zhang's case may be rare, but it is not unique. A CNN investigation into Chinese media revealed at least several dozen cases of former soldiers who were appointed and humiliated in recent years, and sentences are envisioned in Chinese law.

Beijing may be using the occasion to make an example of it and to make it public so that it can reach a broader society.