Mnangagwa Grants Month-Long Amnesty for Illegal Guns, No Questions Asked
By Delicious Mathuthu — Zimbabwe has granted a firearm amnesty running from 12 October to 12 November 2026, allowing people and institutions to surrender illegal firearms and ammunition without prosecution. Police says it will conduct physical verification exercises after the deadline and have urged licensed firearm owners to update their records.
Delicious Mathuthu 
Harare — Zimbabwe has granted a month-long amnesty for the voluntary surrender of illegal firearms and ammunition, with police warning that physical verification exercises will target suspected holders of illegal weapons after the deadline.
In a press statement dated 19 October 2026, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said the amnesty, which runs from 12 October to 12 November, allows individuals and institutions to surrender unlicensed, smuggled or illegally acquired firearms and ammunition at their nearest police station without being questioned.
The amnesty was granted by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in line with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Protocol on the Control of Firearms, Ammunition and Other Related Materials.
Commissioner Nyathi said those who comply with the amnesty would not face prosecution and would receive an official safe custody receipt.
“The Police therefore urges Zimbabweans to take advantage of this firearm amnesty and regularise firearms possession and ownership,” he said.
The police also urged licensed firearm owners to update their records and renew certificates in line with the Firearms Act, Chapter 10:09.
Commissioner Nyathi said investigations had identified cases involving firearms retained despite changes in circumstances, including company closures, inactive gun club membership and the death of licensed firearm holders.
He also raised concern over licensed gun dealers and clubs allegedly retaining unclaimed firearms surrendered to them for safekeeping, which he said contravened the Firearms Act.
The police said improper firearm storage and failure to maintain current licensing records had contributed to theft and misuse, with firearms linked to crimes including armed robbery and murder.
After the amnesty expires, Commissioner Nyathi said the ZRP will conduct physical checks and verification exercises targeting people suspected of retaining illegal firearms.
People seeking clarification on surrender arrangements have been advised to contact their nearest police station.
