Story by Peter Chivhima
THE nation has rallied behind the Presidential Firearms Amnesty programme, saying it is a critical step towards enhancing public safety and national security.
This comes after growing concerns over the rise in violent crimes involving illegal firearms, resulting in President Emmerson Mnangagwa granting the amnesty, a move aligned with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Protocol on the Control of Firearms, Ammunition, and other related materials.
ZBC News took the issue to the people this Thursday, with the citizens applauding the Head of State for the initiative.
“This is a commendable move by the President. It shows he values our safety and is serious about removing dangerous weapons from our communities,” a resident said.
“We appreciate this initiative. Too many crimes are committed using illegal guns. This amnesty gives people a chance to do the right thing without fear,” a concerned citizen said.
“This is a good development because, at times, we fear carrying out our daily business due to the rising number of such cases. Almost every day, you hear that someone has been shot dead. So, if people are encouraged to surrender such weapons, it will make us feel safer,” a Harare resident said.
The amnesty comes at a time when the nation is witnessing a surge in gun-related crimes, including the tragic death of prominent businessman Joseph Mutangadura, who was allegedly fatally shot at his farm a month ago.
A number of businesses have suffered heavy losses after being robbed at gunpoint, raising alarm across the social spectrum.
“As the private security sector, we want to thank His Excellency for this initiative, because in other nations, you would be arrested. What is important is that cases of armed robbery will be reduced. In most cases, these criminals overpower our security teams,” Private Security expert, Mr Bryton Songore said.
“This amnesty is a welcome development and quite progressive in curbing armed robberies in the retail sector. This is a trend that has become increasingly common, with unlicensed firearm holders targeting and robbing people and businesses. By encouraging the voluntary surrender of illegal weapons, the government is restoring public confidence, enhancing community safety, and supporting a more secure environment for both consumers and business operators,” Confederation of the Zimbabwe Retailers president, Mr Denford Mutashu said.
The firearms amnesty, which is running until October 24, has given members of the public an opportunity to surrender unlicensed firearms and ammunition to their nearest police stations, without being questioned.
