Zimbabwe has declared a one-month, no-questions-asked gun surrender as a way to curb crime in the country.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has initiated a sweeping, one-month firearms amnesty in a decisive move to staunch the flow of illegal weapons plaguing the nation. The initiative, formally announced by the Zimbabwe Republic Police, will run from September 24 to October 24, 2025.
During this period, any individual in possession of an unlicensed or illicit firearm can surrender it to their local police station without fear of arrest or prosecution. Authorities have stated that those handing in weapons will receive an official receipt to confirm the item is now in safe custody. The move is a direct response to a terrifying surge in armed robberies and violent crimes that have shaken communities across the country.
Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi revealed that investigations uncovered multiple sources for the illegal weapons. He explained,
“Our inquiries have identified concerning situations where firearms have remained in circulation after gun clubs were disbanded or companies ceased operations. Furthermore, some weapons were not properly secured or their licences were not renewed after the licensed holder passed away.”
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This negligence, according to police, has created a thriving and deadly black market that armed criminals are all too willing to exploit.
Zimbabwe Declares One-Month No Questions Asked Gun Surrender
The amnesty is not limited to formerly legal weapons that have fallen into a grey area. It also explicitly targets arms that have been smuggled into the country or acquired through outright criminal means. However, the police have issued a stern ultimatum alongside this offer of clemency. Once the October deadline passes, a severe crackdown will commence.
Assistant Commissioner Nyathi delivered a chilling message, stating,
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police will carry out physical checks and verifications on all suspected illegal firearm holders. Anyone caught after the deadline will face full prosecution.”
He emphasised that there will be no second chances once the window of opportunity closes.
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An Urgent Plea for Public Cooperation
Licensed firearm owners have also been instructed to ensure their details are fully updated with the authorities to avoid any complications. The overarching goal is to create safer streets by drastically reducing the number of weapons in the hands of criminals. Assistant Commissioner Nyathi made a final, direct appeal to the public, urging them to act responsibly while they still can.
“This is a chance for Zimbabweans to do the right thing and help create safer communities,” he said. He concluded with a stark warning: “After October 24, there will be no mercy.”
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The post Zimbabwe Declares One-Month No-Questions-Asked Gun Surrender Operation appeared first on iHarare News.
