Zimbabweans in possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition have until Thursday, November 12, to voluntarily surrender the weapons to the police under the Presidential Firearms Amnesty, with authorities urging those yet to comply to take advantage of the remaining days.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said the amnesty, which commenced on October 12, 2026, was still in force and would allow individuals and institutions to surrender illegal firearms without facing criminal prosecution.
In a statement, on the ZRP official X handle, today, National Police Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, reminded the public that the programme had been approved by President Mnangagwa in line with Article 12 of the SADC Protocol on the Control of Firearms, Ammunition and Related Materials.
“The ZRP reminds Zimbabweans that the national Firearms Amnesty, which was approved by His Excellency President Cde Dr ED Mnangagwa, is still valid till 12th November 2026,” he said.
Commissioner Nyathi said the amnesty also covered firearms left behind by deceased licensed owners, as well as weapons held by companies and gun clubs that were no longer operational.
“Zimbabweans or anyone in possession of unlicensed firearms, those left behind by late family members, and those with companies and gun clubs which are no longer operating are urged to take advantage of the amnesty and voluntarily surrender firearms at any nearest police station.”
The programme covers unlicensed, smuggled and illegally acquired firearms and ammunition, with those who voluntarily surrender the weapons receiving an official safe-custody receipt.
The police have urged all individuals and institutions affected to surrender the firearms at their nearest police station before the November 12 deadline.
The expiry of the amnesty will pave the way for physical checks and verification exercises to establish compliance with firearms regulations.
