Zimbabwe President Mnangagwa announced a month-long firearm amnesty beginning September 24 and ending October 24, 2025. Citizens may surrender illegal weapons, ammunition, and related materials to police stations without facing criminal charges. The initiative aligns with SADC Protocol on Firearms Control and targets weapon misuse reduction. Police investigations revealed widespread circulation of unlicensed firearms due to business closures, defunct shooting clubs, and deceased license holders whose weapons remained unaccounted for. Gun dealers and clubs have retained unclaimed firearms against legal requirements.
The amnesty addresses licensed owners who failed to renew permits, update documentation, or secure weapons properly, leading to theft and criminal misuse. Armed robbery, murder, and violent crimes have increased due to illegal firearm possession. Individuals and organizations possessing smuggled or unlawfully obtained weapons qualify for the program. Participants receive official safe custody receipts upon surrender. Police will conduct verification operations after the deadline and prosecute those retaining illegal firearms, while licensed owners must update records under Firearms Act Chapter 10 provisions.
The amnesty addresses licensed owners who failed to renew permits, update documentation, or secure weapons properly, leading to theft and criminal misuse. Armed robbery, murder, and violent crimes have increased due to illegal firearm possession. Individuals and organizations possessing smuggled or unlawfully obtained weapons qualify for the program. Participants receive official safe custody receipts upon surrender. Police will conduct verification operations after the deadline and prosecute those retaining illegal firearms, while licensed owners must update records under Firearms Act Chapter 10 provisions.
