Online Reporter
B-Metro Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have arrested more than 2 000 people in a massive nationwide crackdown on illegal firearms, toy gun misuse and other dangerous weapons.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the blitz, code named Operation No to Illegal Firearms, Misuse of Toy Guns and Dangerous Weapons, has been running since 27 August 2025.
“So far, 2 132 suspects have been arrested for offences ranging from possession of unlicensed firearms, failure to renew firearm certificates, misuse of toy guns and unlawful possession of other dangerous weapons,” said Comm Nyathi.
He revealed that cops have recovered 60 unlicensed guns, 305 firearms with expired certificates, 96 linked to other offences, 258 misused toy guns and 2 967 other dangerous weapons.
In a shocking twist, the operation also uncovered a major illegal beauty products trade.
“During the same period, 604 arrests were made for selling and possession of prohibited skin lightening products,” said Comm Nyathi.
The police boss urged gun owners to play by the rules and to ensure weapons don’t fall into the wrong hands.
“Family members and estate administrators must surrender firearms to police when a licensed owner dies, in line with the Firearms Act (Chapter 10:09),” he said.
Comm Nyathi also hinted at a Presidential Firearms Amnesty, set to be announced soon, where people can surrender illegal weapons without facing prosecution.
“Full details will be released in due course. We urge the public to take this opportunity seriously and help make our communities safer,” Comm Nyathi added.
The blitz comes at a time when a surge in armed robberies and violent crimes involving machetes, knives and illegal guns has been reported, with authorities warning that many criminals are getting bolder and more dangerous.
Londile Moyo