Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
A 36-YEAR-OLD Chipinge man, Kudakwashe Wachi, has been arrested after police recovered an unlicenced pistol and ammunition from his homestead in Gavhiri village, under Chief Garahwa.
Acting Manicaland police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the arrest and revealed that investigations are ongoing.
“On August 14, 2025 a joint patrol team comprising officers from the Support Unit, the DUB section, and members of the Zimbabwe National Army received a tip-off that a pistol had been found at Gavhiri Shopping Centre and handed over to Headman Kennias Mutangiri,” said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka.
The dragnet team proceeded to the headman’s homestead, where they were informed that Wachi had already collected the firearm.
Police then searched Wachi’s homestead, and recovered a RETAY MOD 92 pistol with serial number RIYREPOYS 10-2406387, along with a magazine containing four live rounds.
Wachi failed to produce a valid firearm certificate and was arrested before being taken to Chisumbanje Police Station.
Assistant Inspector Chinyoka warned members of the public that illegal possession of firearms poses a significant risk to both the owner and the community.
“We commend the community for alerting us and working together with the police. Firearms are dangerous weapons and cannot be kept in homes without proper authority. They should never be used as toys or symbols of power. Every firearm must be licenced, and those who fail to comply with the law will face arrest,” said.
Assistant Inspector Chinyoka also urged villagers to remain vigilant and report suspicious cases of people keeping guns, rifles, or ammunition without necessary and valid permits.
“People must understand that illegal possession of firearms is not only a crime, but also a serious risk to lives. A single bullet can change an entire family’s destiny. Firearms are meant for licenced purposes only, such as security companies, hunting, or law enforcement,” he said.
Assistant Inspector Chinyoka also noted that cases of unlawful possession often lead to other crimes, including armed robbery, poaching, and even domestic violence.
“We encourage citizens to help us root out the menace of illegal firearms by reporting early. Rifles and pistols in the wrong hands are recipes for disaster. We must always choose safety over recklessness,” he said.
The recovered weapon is being held as an exhibit, while Wachi remains in police custody, facing charges of unlawful possession of a firearm.
Assistant Inspector Chinyoka also urged members of the public to surrender any illegal firearms to their nearest police station, assuring them that those who voluntarily hand them over firearms would not be arrested.
