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Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Gwanda Correspondent
POLICE in Gwanda have issued a three-month prohibition order against carrying of dangerous weapons in public as part of efforts to reduce criminal activities during the festive season.
Acting Officer Commanding Police in Gwanda District, Superintendent Rudo Chitombi said police would intensify patrols and conduct stop and searches during the ban period which stretches from 26 November to 26 February, 2019.
“As police we believe that the carrying in public, whether openly or in concealment, in a public or public display of these weapons is likely to cause public disorder or a breach of peace. These weapons are catapults, machetes, axes, knobkerries, swords, knives, spears, daggers or any traditional weapons.
“We have issued this order as we have recorded a number of violent crimes in Gwanda which involve these weapons. We have also considered that we are entering into the festive season which is a time when we record a number of criminal activities involving these weapons. Therefore, this is a strategy to contain crime over the festive period and ensure that members of the public are protected.
“We will intensify patrols and conduct stop and searches to ensure that these criminals are brought to book,” she said.
Supt Chitombi said once found these weapons would be confiscated and culprits persecuted.
She said anyone who failed to comply with the order in terms of Section 14 (4) of the Public Order and Security Act (Chapter 11:17) subsection (1) would be liable to a fine not exceeding level five or imprisonment for six months or to both a fine and imprisonment.
She urged community members within the Gwanda policing area to observe peace during the festive holiday and act responsibly.
@DubeMatutu
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