Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has intensified its nationwide operation targeting people carrying knives, machetes and other dangerous weapons in public places, with 346 suspects arrested within just 10 days of the crackdown.
In a statement national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the operation, dubbed “No to Knives in Pockets/Inqgamu Idingani Esikhwameni/Banga Rinodei Muhomwe”, was launched on May 9 as part of efforts to curb violent crimes, including murder, attempted murder and robbery.
He said dangerous weapons such as knives, machetes and catapults were increasingly being used in violent incidents, particularly in liquor outlets, nightclubs, mining settlements and residential areas where petty disputes often escalate into serious attacks.
“On 18th May 2026, police recorded 15 arrests under the operation bringing the cumulative number of arrests to 346 since the inception of the operation, ” said Comm Nyathi.
He said the police were concerned by the growing number of criminal elements moving around armed with dangerous weapons in public spaces.
Comm Nyathi reiterated that there was no justification for members of the public to carry knives, machetes or other dangerous weapons in public places.
He urged members of the public to cooperate with police during stop-and-search exercises and to report anyone carrying dangerous weapons.
The intensified operation comes amid growing concern over violent crimes and armed robberies in the country.
