The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has warned Zimbabweans and foreign nationals that it is a criminal offence to possess or transport explosives without proper authorisation.
In a statement, yesterday, the ZRP said the warning is in line with the Explosives Act, Chapter 10:08, which strictly regulates the handling, movement and storage of explosive materials.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reminds Zimbabweans and foreigners that in terms of the Explosives Act, Chapter 10:08, it is a criminal offence for anyone to be in possession or transport explosives to any part of the country without being licenced or authorized to do so,” the police said.
The ZRP further highlighted that public service vehicles, as well as family and private vehicles, are prohibited from carrying explosives under any circumstances. The measure, police said, is meant to safeguard the travelling public and ensure effective maintenance of law and order.
“Public service vehicles, family or private vehicles are not allowed or permitted to carry explosives for whatever reason. This is for the safety of travellers and effective maintenance of law and order in the country,” the statement read.
Authorities indicated that the regulation of explosives is guided not only by the law but also by strict procedures set in consultation with the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development. These procedures outline how explosives should be manufactured, acquired, stored and transported within Zimbabwe.
“As guided by the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development and certainly the provisions of the Explosives Act, there are clear legal conditions through which explosives are manufactured, acquired, stored and ultimately transported,” the ZRP added.
The police have since called on members of the public to play an active role in curbing illegal activities involving explosives by reporting suspicious cases.
“In this regard, Zimbabweans are urged to report anyone illegally transporting explosives in public service vehicles, family or private vehicles,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, members of the public can report such cases through the ZRP National Complaints Desk number (0242) 703631, WhatsApp number 0712800197, or at any nearest police station.
