Bunjiwe Mkwananzi
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu [email protected]
POLICE in Gwanda have imposed a three-month prohibition on the carrying of dangerous weapons in public as part of intensified efforts to curb rising violent crime in the district.
The prohibition order, issued by Officer Commanding Gwanda District, Chief Superintendent Bekezela Ndlovu, will be in force from 15 July to 15 September 2026, during which police will intensify patrols and conduct stop-and-search operations across the district.
The order has been made in terms of Section 4(4) of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (Chapter 11:23) and prohibits members of the public from carrying weapons such as catapults, machetes, axes, knobkerries, swords, knives, spears, daggers and other traditional weapons in public places.
In a statement, Chief Supt Ndlovu said the measure was aimed at preventing breaches of the peace and reducing violent crimes involving dangerous weapons.
“Carrying in public, whether openly or concealment in a public place or in a public thoroughfare or public display of any of the following weapons (A) catapults, machetes, axes, knobkerries, swords, knives, spears or daggers, (B) any traditional weapons whatsoever is likely to occasion public disorder or a breach of peace.
I hereby issue an order prohibiting the carrying of such weapons in Gwanda District or any part thereof for a period not exceeding three months that is from 15 July to 15 September 2026.
“For avoidance of doubt it is declared that in terms of Section 4(4) of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (Chapter 11:23), any person failing to comply with such a prohibition order made under subsection (1) shall be guilty of an offence and liable to a fine not exceeding Level Five or imprisonment for six months or to both such fine and such imprisonment,” she said.
Police said officers will be conducting heightened patrols and stop-and-search operations throughout the prohibition period to enforce compliance.
Dangerous weapons have frequently been linked to serious offences, including murder, attempted murder, robbery and rape, prompting law enforcement agencies to adopt tougher preventive measures to safeguard public safety.
