Harare, (New Ziana) – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has proclaimed an amnesty for people voluntarily surrendering illegally owned arms, police said on Wednesday.
The amnesty, which runs from 24 September to 24 October 2025, is in line with the SADC Protocol on Firearms Control and seeks to curb the rising cases of firearm misuse in the country.
In a press statement, police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi said members of the public are encouraged to hand over unlicensed or illegally acquired firearms to their nearest police stations without fear of arrest or questioning.
“Upon surrender, individuals and institutions will be issued with an official safe custody receipt as proof of compliance,” he said.
Commissioner Nyathi said that investigations had shown that a lot of firearms were irregularly or unlawfully owned in the country.
These include guns retained following company closures, dormant gun club memberships, or the deaths of licensed holders. He further noted that such loopholes have fueled serious crimes such as armed robbery, murder, and other violent offences.
“Some licensed firearm holders are failing to renew certificates or update their records as required, while others are improperly securing their weapons, leading to theft and criminal misuse. Additionally, certain licensed dealers and clubs continue to hold onto unclaimed firearms in clear contravention of the Firearms Act [Chapter 10:09],” Commissioner Nyathi said.
The amnesty also extends to individuals and institutions in possession of smuggled or illegally acquired firearms, with the assurance that no prosecution will follow for those who voluntarily comply within the amnesty period.
However, the ZRP has warned that once the 24th of October deadline passes, strict enforcement measures will be rolled out.
He added that physical checks and verification exercises will be conducted on persons suspected to be in possession of illegal firearms.
“Anyone found in unlawful possession after the deadline will face full prosecution under the law,” Commissioner Nyathi said.
He urged citizens to treat the amnesty as a national duty in strengthening peace and security, as well as aligning with regional and international obligations on arms control.
New Ziana
