Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
THE national firearms amnesty is still in force, with Zimbabweans in possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition being given until November 12 to voluntarily surrender the weapons without facing criminal prosecution, police have said.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has urged individuals and institutions holding illegal or unregistered firearms to take advantage of the amnesty before the one-month window closes, warning that physical checks and verification exercises will follow its expiry.
The amnesty, which runs from October 12 to November 12, 2026, was granted by President Mnangagwa in line with Article 12 of the SADC Protocol on the Control of Firearms, Ammunition and Related Materials.
In a statement, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the amnesty remained valid and covered firearms held in a range of circumstances, including weapons left behind by deceased licensed owners.
“The ZRP reminds Zimbabweans that the national Firearms Amnesty, which was approved by His Excellency President Cde Dr ED Mnangagwa, is still valid till 12th November 2026,” he said.
“Zimbabweans or anyone in possession of unlicensed firearms, those left behind by late family members, and those with companies and gun clubs which are no longer operating are urged to take advantage of the amnesty and voluntarily surrender firearms at any nearest police station.”
The amnesty allows individuals and institutions to surrender unlicensed, smuggled or illegally acquired firearms and ammunition without being prosecuted, while those who comply will receive an official safe-custody receipt.
Comm Nyathi said police had also identified cases involving licensed firearm holders who were failing to renew their certificates or update their records, as well as cases where weapons were not being properly secured.
He said such lapses had contributed to the theft and misuse of firearms, with illegally held or stolen weapons subsequently being linked to serious offences including armed robbery and murder.
“Investigations reveal that some individuals continue to hold on to firearms despite changes in circumstances, such as company closures, inactive gun club membership and the passing on of licensed firearm holders,” he said.
He also warned licensed gun dealers and clubs against retaining unclaimed firearms surrendered to them for safekeeping, saying this was in contravention of the Firearms Act.
“All licensed firearm owners are urged to immediately update their records at local police stations in compliance with the Firearms Act, Chapter 10:09,” Comm Nyathi said.
“Those who comply will not face prosecution and will receive an official safe custody receipt. After the amnesty period expires, the Zimbabwe Republic Police will conduct physical checks and verification exercises targeting persons suspected of retaining illegal firearms,” he said.
The amnesty is part of efforts to strengthen control over firearms and reduce the availability of illegal weapons that can be used in violent crime.
Members of the public seeking guidance on the surrender process or safe-custody arrangements can approach their nearest police station, contact the National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631 or send a WhatsApp message to 0712 800 197.
