By Dumisani Ndlovu
Gweru, Zimbabwe – In response to the escalating abuse of weapons and threats to public safety, Chief Superintendent Enock Chishiri of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a temporary prohibition on the possession of certain weapons within the Gweru Urban Police District. The ban, effective from July 25, 2024, to October 25, 2024, aims to curb the alarming rate of weapon abuse, which has compromised public safety.
The prohibition notice, issued under Section 4 of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act [Chapter 11:23], prohibits the carrying or public display of weapons such as catapults, machetes, axes, knobkerries, swords, knives, or daggers. This measure is intended to prevent the misuse of these weapons, which has led to increased violence and crime in the area.
“The safety of the public is our top priority,” said Chief Superintendent Chishiri. “We will not tolerate any behavior that puts innocent lives at risk. This temporary ban is necessary to ensure that our communities remain safe and secure.”
The ZRP has warned that non-compliance with this prohibition notice will result in severe consequences, including a fine not exceeding level 5, imprisonment for up to six months, or both. Police officers are authorized to seize any weapon or item capable of use as a weapon without a warrant, and seized items will be placed in safe custody and submitted to the court for legal action.
The public is urged to cooperate with the authorities and ensure their safety during this period. The ZRP is committed to maintaining peace and order within the Gweru Urban Police District and will take all necessary measures to achieve this goal.
