Last chance to surrender illegal guns as firearms amnesty enters final days

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has reminded members of the public that the month-long Presidential Firearms Amnesty remains in effect and will end on 12 November 2026.

In a statement issued on Monday, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged individuals who are still in possession of unlicensed, smuggled or illegally acquired firearms and ammunition to surrender them voluntarily at their nearest police station before the amnesty period expires.

The firearms amnesty, granted by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, began on October 12 and runs until November 12, 2026.

Under the programme, individuals and institutions can hand over unlicensed, smuggled or illegally acquired firearms and ammunition without being questioned or prosecuted.

Commissioner Nyathi said the amnesty was introduced amid growing concerns over poor firearm management and non-compliance with the Firearms Act, Chapter 10:09.

He said police had noted that some licensed firearm holders were failing to renew their firearm certificates or update their records, while others were not securing their weapons properly, resulting in theft and misuse.

“This has contributed to various crimes, which include armed robbery, murder and other cases,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

He added that investigations had revealed that some people continued to possess firearms despite changes in their circumstances, such as the closure of companies, inactive gun club memberships or the death of the licensed firearm holder.

“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.

The police spokesman urged all licensed firearm owners to immediately update their records at their nearest police station to ensure compliance with the law.

Commissioner Nyathi said those who take advantage of the amnesty will not face prosecution and will be issued with an official safe custody receipt for any firearms surrendered.

However, he warned that once the amnesty period ends, police will begin physical inspections and verification exercises targeting 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 seeking information on how to surrender firearms safely have been encouraged to contact their nearest police station, the National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631, or WhatsApp on 0712 800 197.