Zimpapers Logo

Michell Zvanyanya, Chronicle Reporter 

POLICE in Bulilima and Mangwe have banned the carrying of dangerous weapons in public for the next three months saying they were being used to commit serious crimes which include robbery, unlawful entry and assault.

The Officer Commanding Bulilimamangwe District, Superintendent Stephen Mutema, issued the three months prohibition order that runs up to January 15 next year. 

Similar bans have been effected in Bulawayo and Matabeleland North. 

In a statement, Supt Mutema said acts of violence have led to an increase in murder, armed robbery, assault, malicious damage to property and domestic violence cases in the area. 

The ban was made in terms of the Public Order and Security Act (POSA).

 “The Regulating Authority of the area believes on reasonable grounds that carrying in public whether openly or by concealment in a public place or public thoroughfare or public display of any of the following weapons or items capable of use as a weapon (A) catapults, machetes, axes, knobkerries, swords, knives or daggas, (B) any traditional weapons likely to occasion public disorder or a breach of peace,” said Supt Mutema. 

“I hereby declare and issue an Order prohibiting the carrying of such weapons in Bulilimamangwe District for a period not exceeding three months from October 15, 2019 to January 15, 2020.”

He said those who defy the ban risk being fined or imprisoned for six months. 

“For the avoidance of doubt, it is declared that in terms of Section 14 (4) of the Public Order and Security Act Chapter 11:17, any person failing to comply with such a prohibition made under subsection (1) shall be guilty of an offence and liable to a fine not exceeding level five or imprisonment for six months or both fine and imprisonment,” Supt Mutema said. —@michellzvanyanyan2