PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared a national firearm amnesty running from September 24 to October 24, urging citizens in possession of unlicensed or illegally acquired guns to voluntarily surrender them to the police without risking prosecution.
This was revealed by the national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi in a statement.
“This national firearm amnesty is in line with the Sadc Protocol on Firearms Control, Ammunition and Other Related Materials,” Nyathi said.
“It allows members of the public to hand in unlicensed firearms and ammunition at their nearest police station without being questioned.”
He said investigations showed that unlicensed and improperly secured firearms were increasingly being linked to serious crimes.
“Some individuals continue to keep guns despite changed circumstances such as company closure, inactive gun club memberships or the passing on of licensed firearm holders and these firearms have contributed to crimes such as armed robbery, murder and other violent cases.”
Nyathi also revealed that some licensed firearm holders were failing to renew their certificates or update their records.
“Others are storing firearms improperly, leading to theft and misuse,” he said.
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“We have also noted that licensed gun dealers and clubs are holding on to unclaimed firearms surrendered for safekeeping, which is a violation of the Firearms Act [Chapter 10:09].”
The police spokesperson confirmed that the amnesty also applies to institutions and individuals in possession of smuggled firearms.
“Those who comply will not face prosecution and will receive an official safe custody receipt.
“After the deadline of October 24, 2025, the police will conduct physical checks and verifications on individuals suspected of keeping illegal firearms.”
Nyathi urged all licensed firearm owners to take the opportunity to regularise their status.
“We encourage Zimbabweans to take advantage of this amnesty to surrender illegal firearms and ensure proper compliance with the Firearms Act [Chapter 10:09],” said Nyathi.
The firearm amnesty comes amid increasing concern over the use of guns in violent crimes across the country.
Authorities hope the exercise will reduce the number of unregistered and illegal firearms in circulation, thereby enhancing national
security.
