ZRP Bans Carrying of Machetes, Axes and Knives in Zvishavane District

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a three-month prohibition order banning the public carrying and display of weapons in Zvishavane Police District in response to a surge in violent crime.
The order, signed by Chief Superintendent Enock Chishiri, the regulating authority for Zvishavane District, takes effect from 15 December 2025 to 14 March 2026 and prohibits the possession in public places of machetes, axes, knives, daggers, catapults, knobkerries and swords, whether carried openly or concealed
Police said the measure is aimed at curbing a “sharp increase” in assaults, robberies, murder cases and other violent crimes involving the listed weapons across the district, which covers Zvishavane and Mberengwa administrative areas
Under the order, any police officer is authorised to seize prohibited items without a warrant if found in contravention of the notice. Seized weapons will be placed in safe custody and submitted to the courts for disposal in accordance with the law
Failure to comply with the prohibition constitutes a criminal offence. Offenders risk a fine not exceeding level five, imprisonment of up to six months, or both
The ZRP urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement during the period of the ban, saying the move is intended to enhance public safety and restore order in communities affected by violent crime.