The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has released an update on the ongoing 2024 Firearms Amnesty, which encourages the voluntary surrender of firearms and ammunition by citizens.
This initiative, launched on September 1 2024, aims to enhance public safety amidst escalating concerns regarding armed robberies linked to unregistered firearms in the wrong hands.
As of now, only eight firearms have been surrendered, a figure that the police find disappointing given the magnitude of the issue.
The ZRP is urging individuals and various stakeholders ; including companies, farmers, miners, hunters, gun dealers, and security firms to take advantage of this amnesty, which will last until September 30, 2024.
The police have assured the public that any arms surrendered during this period will be accepted without fear of questioning or arrest.
Moreover, licensed firearm holders are encouraged to update their records and notify authorities of any changes to their residences or business locations.
The police plan to conduct physical checks and verifications of premises suspected of harboring illegal firearms to ensure compliance with the law.
The ZRP has expressed its concern over the rising trend of armed robberies, reinforcing the need for community cooperation in this initiative.
As the deadline approaches, individuals are reminded that failure to comply with the surrender of illegal firearms will result in a nationwide operation to apprehend those in possession of unregistered weapons.
This reinforces the police’s commitment to ensuring public safety and reducing crime.
As the amnesty draws to a close, the ZRP implores the public to take this opportunity seriously, emphasizing that the consequences of non-compliance could lead to serious legal repercussions.
SOURCE : NEWSREPORTZIM.COM