By Savious Madanhire
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a stern warning to all individuals in possession of illegal firearms and ammunition, giving them an ultimatum to surrender their weapons by September 30 or face severe consequences.
According to the press statement, the amnesty period is running from 1 September to 30 September 2024.
ZRP national spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said
members of the public who have unlicensed firearms hence leading to the violation of Firearms Act.
“Police have noted that some members of the public are holding on to or have firearms and ammunition yet some are not licensed or authorized to have such
weapons. This has led to the abuse of firearms in the country in clear violation of the provisions of the Firearms Act, Chapter 10:09,”
Furthermore, Comm Nyathi highlighted those who should surrender firearms and also how they can surrender their firearms in different categories at the nearest police station.
“Previously amnesties were done in 2022 and 2023, the public and relevant institutions are reminded and urged to go to the nearest police stations and formally surrender all firearms under the listed categories, companies that have closed and their representatives are still holding onto firearms.”
“Farmers, miners, hunters and individuals who are no longer in the same position that they were when they applied for firearm certificates and firearm license holders who have died and relatives are holding on the firearm without regularizing new firearm ownership.”
“Also the unregistered firearms obtained through smuggling amongst other means. These firearms need to be surrendered to the state for destruction or registration,” Comm Nyathi added.
Comm Nyathi went on to say the police will conduct physical checks and verifications on all residential and business premises where illegal firearms are suspected to be kept.
“This exercise is aimed at reducing the number of illegal firearms in circulation, thereby enhancing public safety and reducing the risk of firearm-related crimes hence physical checks and verifications will be conducted on all residential and business premises where illegal firearms are suspected to be.”
