The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has banned the carrying of weapons that might cause public disorder or breach of peace in Harare Metropolitan Province.
In a statement on Monday morning, Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Tendai Mwanza said the order is in terms of section 4 of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MOPA) Chapter 11:23).
Some of the prohibited weapons included catapults, machetes, axes, knobkerries, swords, knives, stones, daggers and any traditional weapon that would cause public disorder or breach of peace.
Insp Mwanza said violent crimes were prevalent in Harare central, Harare Suburban, Mbare, Harare South and Chitungwiza districts among others. He said:
The belief is informed by an escalation in violent crimes such as murder, assault, armed robbery and rape in the five police districts.
We, therefore, want to safeguard peace in our communities and get rid of marauding criminals.
Insp Mwanza said the order is for a period of three months, that is, from July 15 to October 15.