Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
POLICE have launched a crackdown on dangerous weapons, arresting 346 suspects so far, as authorities move to curb violent crime.
According to police, many of these weapons are being used to commit serious offences, including robbery, murder and assault.
In a statement, spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the operation will continue until sanity is restored.
“The ZRP has intensified Operation ‘No to Knives in Pockets/Ingqamu Idingani Esikhwameni/Banga Rinodei Muhomwe’ as part of ongoing efforts to curb violent crimes, including murder, attempted murder, and robbery, in which dangerous weapons such as knives, machetes, and catapults are commonly used,” Comm Nyathi said.
He said the operation followed concerns over criminal elements carrying dangerous weapons in public areas such as liquor outlets, nightclubs, mining settlements, and residential areas, where petty disputes often escalate into serious violence. On May 18, 2026, police arrested 15 more suspects, bringing the cumulative number of arrests since the operation began on May 9, 2026 to 346.
“The ZRP reiterates that there is no justification for members of the public to carry knives, machetes, or other dangerous weapons in public places,” Comm Nyathi said.
“Members of the public are urged to cooperate with police officers during stop-and-search exercises and to report individuals carrying dangerous weapons through the National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631, WhatsApp number 0712 800 197, or at any nearest police station.”
The crackdown comes as the ZRP is also conducting nationwide crime awareness campaigns, primarily targeting tobacco farmers and urging them to remain vigilant against serious criminal activities.
The campaigns focus on preventing armed robbery, murder, stock theft and domestic violence. On Tuesday, a team of senior officers led by Commissioner Nyathi held an awareness campaign in Mvurwi, Mashonaland Central Province, engaging directly with tobacco farmers.
