The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a fresh reminder about the ongoing Presidential Firearms Amnesty.
Police say the month-long programme will officially close on November 12, 2026.
ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged people holding illegal firearms to surrender them before the deadline.
He encouraged individuals with unlicensed, smuggled or illegally acquired weapons to visit their nearest police station.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa introduced the amnesty on October 12, 2026.
The programme allows individuals and institutions to surrender illegal firearms and ammunition without facing prosecution.
According to Nyathi, authorities introduced the initiative following concerns about firearm management and violations of the Firearms Act, Chapter 10:09.
Police raise concerns over illegal firearms and poor record-keeping
Nyathi said police had identified several cases involving licensed firearm owners failing to meet legal requirements.
Some owners had allowed their firearm certificates to expire without renewing them.
Others had failed to update their records or properly secure their weapons.
Police believe these failures have contributed to firearms falling into the wrong hands.
“This has contributed to various crimes, which include armed robbery, murder and other cases,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
Furthermore, investigations uncovered cases involving firearms retained despite significant changes in ownership circumstances.
These included businesses closing down, gun club memberships becoming inactive and licensed firearm holders passing away.
Nyathi also raised concerns about licensed gun dealers and clubs retaining unclaimed weapons.
“It has been observed that licensed gun dealers and clubs also hold on to unclaimed firearms surrendered to them for safekeeping in clear violation and contravention of the Firearms Act, Chapter 10:09,” he said.
Police have therefore urged all licensed firearm owners to visit their nearest stations.
They must update their records and ensure compliance with the country’s firearms legislation.
Police warn of inspections after November 12
Meanwhile, authorities have encouraged the public to take advantage of the amnesty before it expires.
People who voluntarily surrender firearms during this period will not face prosecution.
Police will also provide official safe custody receipts for surrendered weapons.
However, Nyathi warned that the situation would change once the programme ends.
Police will then conduct physical inspections and verification exercises.
These operations will target individuals suspected of illegally possessing firearms.
“All licensed firearm owners are urged to immediately update their records at local police stations in compliance with the Firearms Act, Chapter 10:09,” he said.
Members of the public requiring guidance on safely surrendering firearms can contact their nearest police station.
They can also reach the National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631.
Alternatively, members of the public can send a WhatsApp message to 0712 800 197.
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