Police Launch Month-Long Firearms Amnesty to Curb Illegal Weapons
By Staff Reporter
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has announced the commencement of a nationwide firearms amnesty, urging citizens to voluntarily surrender illegal and unregistered firearms.
The amnesty, which began on September 1, 2024, will run until September 30, 2024, and aims to reduce the number of illegal firearms in circulation, enhancing public safety and curbing firearm-related crimes.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police informs the public that the 2024 Firearms Amnesty on voluntary surrender of firearms and ammunition is currently underway,” said Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the ZRP’s national spokesperson.
Commissioner Nyathi expressed concern over the rising number of firearms in the hands of individuals who are neither licensed nor authorized to possess them, leading to an increase in firearm abuse across the country.
“This has led to the abuse of firearms in the country in clear violation of the provisions of the Firearms Act, Chapter 10:09,” Commissioner Nyathi said.
The amnesty is not only directed at unlicensed firearm holders but also at individuals and entities such as companies, farmers, miners, and gun clubs who possess firearms under expired or irregular conditions.
“As previously done in the year 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,” Nyathi said.
Licensed firearm holders are also being encouraged to ensure their records are up to date and to report any changes in residential or business addresses to facilitate police checks.
“The exercise is aimed at reducing the number of illegal firearms in circulation, thereby enhancing public safety and reducing the risk of firearm-related crimes,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
He said police will conduct physical checks and verifications on premises where illegal firearms are suspected to be held, and the public is encouraged to comply with the amnesty to avoid legal repercussions.
