Gweru, (New Ziana) – Gweru Rural District police have banned the carrying of weapons within its jurisdiction for the next four months to help curb violent crimes, most of which have led to murder.
The district covers Shurugwi, Mvuma and Lower Gweru, and most artisanal mining areas in the province where violence is commonplace.
Chief Superintendent Shandirai Munemo, the officer commanding for Gweru Rural District, said police will arrest anyone found carrying dangerous weapons.
Dangerous weapons include machetes and knives, and these will be confiscated from offenders in addition to other punishment that will be meted out.
Criminal gangs, especially in artisanal mining areas, use machetes and knives to settle disputes, often resulting in deaths.
Chief Supt Munemo said apart from bringing culprits to book, the weapons Prohibition Order will also help police to execute their constitutional mandate of preserving peace as enshrined in the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
“There is an increase in assault and robbery cases where weapons that include axes, knobkerries, swords, knives, catapults and daggers are used. Violent crimes such as murder are also being committed,” he said.
The Prohibition Order took effect on February 7 and will run until May 7 this year.
Chief Supt Munemo said those found on the wrong side of the law will be fined or imprisoned for a period not exceeding six months. Speaking during the opening of the 2024 legal year at the Gweru Magistrates Court last month, High Court Judge Justice Evangelista Kabasa said the judiciary was concerned with the high murder rates in in the Midlands province.
He said most of the murder cases where as a result of trivial matters, including domestic issues.
New Ziana
