Crimes and Courts Correspondent
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has expressed concern over the low response to the ongoing firearms amnesty, with only eight firearms surrendered across the country after 13 days.
“The police is concerned with reports of armed robberies throughout the country, which show that unregistered firearms and ammunition are in the wrong hands,” said ZRP spokesperson Paul Nyathi.
“We urge the public to take advantage of this opportunity to surrender firearms and ammunition voluntarily, without fear of questioning or arrest.”
The amnesty, which began on September 1, 2024, allows individuals and organizations to surrender unregistered firearms and ammunition without facing legal consequences. However, the response has been underwhelming, with only a handful of firearms surrendered so far.
“We are disappointed with the low response, especially given the increase in armed robberies throughout the country,” Nyathi said.
“We encourage companies, farmers, miners, hunters, individuals, gun dealers or gun clubs, and security companies who are no longer authorized to possess firearms or ammunition to surrender them to the nearest police station.”
Licensed firearm holders are also reminded to update their records and inform authorities of any changes in their residential or business addresses. After the amnesty period ends on September 30, the ZRP plans to conduct a nationwide operation to crack down on illegal firearm possession.
“After the expiry of the amnesty period, a nationwide operation will be conducted, and arrests will be made for illegal possession of firearms or ammunition,” Nyathi warned.
“We are also conducting checks and verifications on properties suspected of harboring illegal weapons, and we urge the public to cooperate for the sake of public safety.”
Zim GBC News©2024