Zimbabwe police warn SA returnees over illegal firearms

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has warned that there will be no hiding place for anyone smuggling illegal firearms into the country, as authorities intensify enforcement against unregistered weapons and tighten compliance with vehicle importation regulations.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said law enforcement agencies have stepped up compliance checks at border posts and inland operations to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms and ensure adherence to customs and licensing laws.

He stressed that every firearm brought into Zimbabwe must be declared, cleared by the police and licensed before it can be legally possessed.

"All returnees who are in possession of firearms are urged to surrender them to the police and ensure that they are properly cleared and licensed in terms of the country's laws. Any firearm that is not registered is regarded as smuggled and illegal," said Comm Nyathi.

He warned that there would be no exceptions to the law, adding that anyone found in possession of an unregistered firearm would face prosecution.

"Firearms must be cleared by the Zimbabwe Republic Police and licensed before they can be legally possessed in the country," he said.

Comm Nyathi said the proliferation of illegal firearms poses a significant threat to public safety, noting that such weapons are frequently used in armed robberies, violent crimes and other organised criminal activities.

He said police would continue intelligence-led operations aimed at detecting illegal firearms and bringing offenders before the courts.

"We are appealing to members of the public, particularly returnees, to cooperate with the police. Those who have firearms that have not been regularised should voluntarily surrender them and comply with the legal requirements before enforcement action is taken," he said.

The police also warned returning Zimbabweans importing vehicles to comply fully with customs and registration requirements.

Comm Nyathi said motorists using Temporary Import Permits (TIPs) must strictly observe the conditions attached to the permits and avoid abusing the facility.

"We are also reminding all returnees who bring vehicles into Zimbabwe to regularise them and comply with all vehicle registration requirements. Those using Temporary Import Permits should not abuse the facility by violating the conditions under which the permits are issued," he said.

He warned that authorities would take firm action against individuals who misuse the TIP system, including those who fail to regularise imported vehicles or use them outside the terms of the permits.

According to the police, Temporary Import Permits are intended to facilitate the temporary entry of foreign-registered vehicles into Zimbabwe and should not be used to circumvent customs obligations or vehicle registration laws.

Comm Nyathi said compliance with firearms legislation and vehicle importation regulations is critical to safeguarding public security, promoting road safety and protecting national interests.

He encouraged returnees to seek guidance from the Zimbabwe Republic Police, customs officials and other relevant government departments whenever they are uncertain about legal requirements relating to firearms, vehicle importation or licensing.

"The Zimbabwe Republic Police remains committed to maintaining peace, safety and security throughout the country. We encourage all returnees to comply with the law and work with law enforcement agencies. Those who choose to ignore the law should be prepared to face the consequences," he said.