By Fanuel Chinowaita
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has announced a presidential firearm amnesty allowing individuals and institutions to voluntarily surrender unlicensed, smuggled or illegally acquired firearms and ammunition without prosecution until November 12, 2026.
In a press statement dated October 19, 2026, police said the amnesty, granted by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, runs from October 12 to November 12 and is intended to promote compliance with firearm control regulations and improve public safety.
The initiative allows individuals and institutions to surrender firearms and ammunition at their nearest police station without being questioned, with those who comply receiving official safe custody receipts.
“The Police therefore urges Zimbabweans to take advantage of this firearm amnesty and regularise firearms possession and ownership,” said Commissioner Paul Nyathi, Chief Staff Officer for Press and Public Relations to the Commissioner-General of Police.
The police said the amnesty was introduced in line with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Protocol on the Control of Firearms, Ammunition and Other Related Materials.
The announcement comes amid concerns over firearm holders who fail to renew their certificates or update their records, as well as cases of firearms being improperly secured, stolen and subsequently used in criminal activities.
According to the police, such incidents have contributed to crimes including armed robbery and murder.
Investigations have also revealed that some individuals continue to possess firearms despite changes in their circumstances, including company closures, inactive gun club memberships and the deaths of licensed firearm holders.
The police further warned that some licensed gun dealers and clubs were retaining unclaimed firearms surrendered to them for safekeeping, in violation of the Firearms Act, Chapter 10:09.
All licensed firearm owners have been urged to update their records at their local police stations to ensure compliance with the law.
The police said physical inspections and verification exercises targeting individuals suspected of retaining illegal firearms would be conducted after the amnesty period expires.
Members of the public seeking clarification on the safe surrender of firearms have been advised to contact their nearest police station or the National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631. They can also reach the police via WhatsApp on 0712 800 197.
The amnesty provides an opportunity for individuals and institutions holding illegally acquired firearms to surrender them without prosecution during the specified period.