Public Urged to Surrender Zombie Knives and Machetes Before Upcoming Ban

Individuals in England and Wales are urged to surrender zombie-style knives and machetes to police between August 26 and September 23 before a ban starts on September 24. Those surrendering weapons during this period can avoid arrest and may receive compensation. The ban aims to halve knife crime and will close a loophole allowing the sale of these offensive weapons.

Individuals in possession of zombie-style knives and machetes are being urged to hand them over to police before a ban takes effect on September 24.

Following legislation passed by the Conservative government, the ban aims to reduce knife crime.

Residents of England and Wales can surrender these items at police stations from August 26 to September 23 and may be eligible for compensation.

Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson stated that this ban is part of a broader plan to halve knife crime within the next decade, which will include banning ninja swords.

The government has assured that those who surrender their weapons during this period will not face arrest or prosecution.

The offensive weapons, defined as blades over eight inches long with serrated edges, were first listed as prohibited in 2016.

A loophole that allowed their sale if they did not display violent imagery will be closed next month.

After the ban takes effect, possession of zombie knives and machetes will result in jail time.