Vusumuzi Dube
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has reported a disappointing response to the ongoing 2024 Firearms Amnesty programme, as only eight have been surrendered since it started on September 1 this year.
“Reference being made to a press statement released on September 02 by the ZRP, the police expressed concern over the rising incidents of armed robberies linked to unregistered firearms in the country. Authorities emphasized that these weapons are often in the hands of criminals, contributing to escalating violence.
“To date, only eight firearms have been surrendered to the police throughout the country,” it said.
The ZRP urged the public to take advantage of the amnesty allowing individuals to surrender firearms and ammunition without fear of legal consequences.
Farmers, miners and security companies were particularly encouraged to return unauthorized firearms to their nearest police stations while licence holders were reminded to keep their records updated and notify authorities of any changes in their addresses.
The police said they will continue conducting physical checks on residential and business premises suspected of harboring illegal firearms with the amnesty set to end on September 30.
New Ziana
Online Reporter