Online Reporter
Peter Matika [email protected]
POLICE have warned that there will be no hiding place for anyone bringing illegal firearms into the country, as authorities intensify efforts to stem the proliferation of smuggled weapons and tighten compliance with vehicle importation laws.
Every firearm entering Zimbabwe must be declared, cleared and licensed, while any unregistered weapon is automatically classified as smuggled and illegal. Returnees using Temporary Import Permits (TIPs) have been ordered to regularise their vehicles and desist from abusing the facility or risk prosecution.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said this as he clarified that law enforcement agencies were intensifying compliance checks at border posts and inland operations as part of efforts to safeguard public safety and curb the proliferation of illegal firearms.
He said returnees have a responsibility to ensure they comply with the country’s firearms legislation and customs regulations.
“All returnees who are in possession of firearms are urged to surrender them to the police and ensure that they are properly cleared and licensed in terms of the country’s laws. Any firearm that is not registered is regarded as smuggled and illegal,” said Comm Nyathi.
He said there is no exception to the law and that any person found in possession of an unregistered firearm will face the full wrath of the law.
“Firearms must be cleared by the Zimbabwe Republic Police and licensed before they can be legally possessed in the country,” he said.
Comm Nyathi said illegal firearms posed a serious threat to public security, often finding their way into the hands of criminals involved in armed robberies, violent offences and other organised criminal activities.
He said police would continue conducting intelligence-led operations to detect illegal firearms and ensure offenders were brought before the courts.
“We are appealing to members of the public, particularly returnees, to cooperate with the police. Those who have firearms that have not been regularised should voluntarily surrender them and comply with the legal requirements before enforcement action is taken,” he said.
Comm Nyathi also urged returning Zimbabweans bringing vehicles into the country to ensure they complied with all importation and registration procedures.
He said motorists using Temporary Import Permits (TIP) should strictly adhere to the conditions attached to the permits and avoid abusing the facility.
“We are also reminding all returnees who bring vehicles into Zimbabwe to regularise them and comply with all vehicle registration requirements.
“Those using Temporary Import Permits should not abuse the facility by violating the conditions under which the permits are issued,” he said.
Comm Nyathi warned that law enforcement agencies would not hesitate to act against individuals found abusing the TIP system, including those who fail to regularise imported vehicles or use them contrary to the provisions of the permit.
He said the permits were designed to facilitate the temporary entry of foreign-registered vehicles into Zimbabwe and should not be used to circumvent customs and vehicle registration laws.
Comm Nyathi said compliance with firearms and vehicle regulations was essential in maintaining public order, enhancing road safety and protecting national security.
Comm Nyathi urged returnees to seek guidance from the police, customs officials and other relevant Government departments whenever they were uncertain about legal procedures relating to firearms, vehicle importation or licensing.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police remains committed to maintaining peace, safety and security throughout the country. We encourage all returnees to comply with the law and work with law enforcement agencies.
“Those who choose to ignore the law should be prepared to face the consequences,” he said.
