By Fanuel Chinowaita
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has imposed a three-month ban on the carrying of machetes, knives, axes, swords and other dangerous weapons in designated parts of Mutare Rural District following an escalation in violent incidents involving such weapons.
In a prohibition order dated November 5, 2026, Mutare Rural District Officer Commanding Police, Chief Superintendent Trymore Matsikesimbe, said the decision was prompted by an increase in violence involving dangerous weapons.
“The belief is informed by an escalation in cases of violence perpetrated in using mentioned weapons in Mutare Rural District,” said Chief Superintendent Matsikesimbe.
The order, issued in terms of Section 4(1) of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (Chapter 11:23), will take effect on November 15, 2026, and remain in force until February 12, 2027.
The prohibition covers the carrying of dangerous weapons in public places, whether openly or concealed.
The prohibited items include catapults, machetes, axes, knobkerries, swords, knives, daggers and any traditional weapons likely to cause public disorder or a breach of peace.
The designated geographical area is bounded by the Save River to the south-west, Singwizi River to the west, Odzi River to the north, Osborne to Nyamukwarara to the north, and the Mozambique border to the east, extending from Nyamukwarara to Imbeza and along the border streams to Rotanda Cashel.
However, the police have clarified that Chikanga, Hobhouse, Dangamvura, Fern Valley and Mutare Central are excluded from the prohibition and are not among the areas affected by the order.
The prohibition will be communicated through public notices, displays at public buildings and announcements by police officers.
Anyone found violating the order faces a fine not exceeding Level Five or imprisonment for up to six months, or both.
Police officers are also empowered to seize, without a warrant, any weapon or item capable of being used as a weapon found in the possession of anyone contravening the prohibition.
The seized items will be placed in safe custody and submitted to the courts for determination in accordance with the law.
The order was signed by Chief Superintendent Matsikesimbe in his capacity as the regulating authority for Mutare Rural District.