President Emmerson Mnangagwa has granted a national firearm amnesty, allowing individuals and institutions to voluntarily surrender unlicensed or illegally acquired firearms and ammunition without facing prosecution.
In a statement, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said the amnesty runs from October 12 to November 12, 2026, and is intended to promote compliance with firearm regulations and curb the misuse of weapons.
The amnesty allows individuals and institutions to surrender firearms and ammunition at their nearest police stations without being questioned. Those who comply will not face prosecution and will receive an official safe custody receipt.
The police said the initiative comes amid concerns over firearm theft and misuse, which have contributed to crimes including armed robbery and murder.
“Some licensed firearm holders are not renewing their certificates or updating their records, while others are improperly securing their firearms, leading to theft and misuse,” the statement said.
Investigations have also revealed that some individuals continue to hold firearms despite changes in circumstances, including company closures, inactive gun club membership and the death 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 local police stations in compliance with the law.
Following the expiry of the amnesty, the ZRP will conduct physical checks and verification exercises targeting people suspected of retaining illegal firearms.
Members of the public seeking guidance on the safe surrender of firearms can contact their nearest police station, the National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631 or WhatsApp on 0712 800 197.
The amnesty is in line with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Protocol on Firearms Control, Ammunition and other related materials.