ZRP bans carrying of weapons

Victor Maphosa Herald Correspondent
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has for the next three months prohibited the carrying of weapons by members of the public, as use of the dangerous weapons in criminal activities surges.

In a statement, police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged the public to take heed of the prohibition notices in their respective areas as failure to comply will render one guilty of an offence and liable to imprisonment.

Said Asst-Comm Nyathi: “ZRP has noted an increase in the use of dangerous weapons in the commission of crime throughout the country.

“In accordance with Section 14(1) of the Public Order and Security Act Chapter 11:17, Officers Commanding Police Districts also known as Regulating Authorities have now prohibited, for the next three months, the carrying whether openly or by concealment in public places or public thoroughfares or public display of firearms, catapults, machetes, axes, knobkerries, swords, knives, stones or daggers or items capable of use as weapons and likely to occasion public disorder or a breach of peace.”

Asst-Comm Nyathi urged tobacco farmers to be on the lookout for thieves as the tobacco marketing season roars into life.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police implores members of the public to be alert, especially farmers and transporters as the 2019 tobacco selling season begins,” he said.

“Farmers should take note that there are organised criminals who take advantage of the increase in traffic to commit offences by duping unsuspecting traders and tobacco farmers.”