The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has announced a one-month presidential amnesty allowing members of the public to voluntarily surrender unlicensed firearms and ammunition without facing prosecution.
The amnesty, granted by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in line with the SADC Protocol on Firearms Control, runs from September 24 to October 24, 2025. It is aimed at curbing the growing misuse of firearms linked to illegal possession.
In a statement, released yesterday, ZRP Chief Staff Officer (Press and Public Relations), Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said the exercise was intended to promote public safety while giving people a chance to regularise their status.
“His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, has granted a national firearm amnesty allowing members of the public to voluntarily surrender unlicensed firearms and ammunition to their nearest police stations, without being questioned, from 24th September 2025 to 24th October 2025,” said Nyathi.
He explained that investigations by the police had shown disturbing trends where individuals continued to hold firearms despite changes in circumstances, such as company closures, inactive gun club memberships, or the death of licensed holders.
“This has contributed to various crimes, which include armed robbery, murder and other cases,” Nyathi noted.
The police also highlighted concerns over licensed firearm holders who were failing to renew their certificates or update their records, as well as improper storage that has led to thefts and subsequent misuse. Nyathi warned that some gun dealers and clubs were illegally holding onto unclaimed firearms surrendered for safekeeping, a direct contravention of the Firearms Act, Chapter 10:09.
“The amnesty also applies to individuals and institutions in possession of smuggled or illegally acquired firearms. Those who comply will not face prosecution and will receive an official safe custody receipt,” Nyathi added.
However, Nyathi cautioned that once the deadline passes, police will conduct physical checks and verification exercises on individuals suspected of illegally holding firearms.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police will not hesitate to take action against offenders after October 24, 2025,” he said.
He further urged all licensed firearm owners to update their records at local police stations as required by law.
“The Police therefore urges Zimbabweans to take advantage of this firearm amnesty and regularise firearms possession and ownership,” Nyathi said.
