Police tighten grip on firearm abuse

POLICE have warned firearm holders that authorities will not hesitate to revoke firearm certificates in cases involving abuse, irresponsible conduct and misuse of licensed weapons, amid growing concern over incidents involving firearms in communities across the country.

National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said they have noted with concern cases of firearm abuse by some firearm certificate holders.

He stressed that the regulation, issuance and revocation of firearm certificates remained the sole responsibility of the Controller of Firearms in terms of the Firearms Act [Chapter 10:09].

Comm Nyathi said the law empowers authorities to withdraw firearm certificates where a holder is deemed unfit to continue possessing a weapon.

“The Act stipulates that a firearm certificate may be revoked if the Controller is satisfied that the holder is of intemperate habits or of unsound mind or is otherwise not fit to be entrusted with the firearm to which the firearm certificate relates or no longer has a good reason for possessing that firearm,” he said.

Comm Nyathi said once a decision to revoke a firearm certificate has been made, the affected firearm holder will be notified in writing and required to surrender the weapon within 14 days.

Failure to comply with the directive constitutes an offence under the law and could result in legal action.
“Once a decision to revoke a firearm has been made, the Controller will notify the firearm holder in writing. The firearm holder is required to surrender the firearm to the police within 14 days of receiving the notice,” he said.

“Failure to surrender the firearm after revocation constitutes an offence under the Act and appropriate legal action will be taken.”

Comm Nyathi urged all firearm holders to exercise maximum responsibility and comply fully with legal provisions governing firearm ownership.

He also appealed to members of the public to report suspicious activities involving the use or abuse of firearms at the nearest police station or through the National Complaints Desk.

The latest warning comes against a backdrop of growing concern over incidents involving firearms, including domestic disputes, violent crimes and accidental shootings.

In recent months, police have repeatedly raised alarm over the misuse of licensed firearms in disputes that later escalated into violence, with some cases ending in injury or death.

Law enforcement agencies have also expressed concern over situations where firearms have been used recklessly during family disputes, business disagreements and altercations arising from personal conflicts.

Security experts have previously warned that while firearm ownership remains legal under strict conditions, responsible possession is critical to protecting public safety.

Comm Nyathi said under Zimbabwean law, firearm ownership is regulated through a licensing framework designed to ensure that only individuals deemed responsible and suitable are granted access to firearms.

He said prospective firearm owners undergo vetting processes and must provide valid reasons for ownership, including sporting activities, security concerns, farming purposes or professional requirements.

Comm Nyathi said firearm holders must remain compliant with the law at all times and urged communities to play a role in helping authorities curb abuse.

He said members of the public with information on firearm-related offences should immediately alert law enforcement agencies.

“The public is urged to report any suspicious activities involving the use and abuse of firearms,” he said.