ZRP Puts Reckless Gun Owners On Notice

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has warned firearm holders that authorities will not hesitate to revoke firearm certificates in cases of abuse, irresponsible conduct or misuse of licensed weapons.

The warning follows growing concern over firearm-related incidents, including domestic disputes, violent crimes and accidental shootings.

ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said police had noted with concern cases of firearm abuse by some certificate holders.

He stressed that the regulation, issuing and revocation of firearm certificates remained the sole responsibility of the Controller of Firearms under the Firearms Act [Chapter 10:09].

The law, he added, allows authorities to withdraw a certificate if a holder is deemed unfit to continue possessing a weapon.

“The Act stipulates that a firearm certificate may be revoked if the Controller is satisfied that the holder is of intemperate habits or of unsound mind or is otherwise not fit to be entrusted with the firearm to which the firearm certificate relates or no longer has a good reason for possessing that firearm,” he said.

Firearm holders whose licences are revoked will be notified in writing and must surrender their weapons within 14 days, Comm Nyathi has said.

Failing to comply with the directive is an offence and could lead to legal action.

Comm Nyathi urged all firearm holders to act responsibly and comply fully with the legal requirements for firearm ownership.

He appealed to the public to report any suspicious activity involving the use or abuse of firearms at their nearest police station or through the National Complaints Desk.

Under Zimbabwean law, firearm ownership is tightly regulated to ensure only responsible and suitable people are granted access to weapons, he said.

Prospective owners go through vetting and must give valid reasons for ownership, such as sport, security, farming or professional needs.

Members of the public with information on firearm-related offences should alert law enforcement immediately, Comm Nyathi added.

– _Chronicle_