Call to surrender zombie-style knives and machetes

The government has called on people to hand in zombie-style knives and machetes ahead of a ban which is due to come in force on 24 September.

From that date, it will be illegal to own zombie-style knives, as they will be added to the list of dangerous prohibited items, which already includes zombie knives, butterfly knives, Samurai swords and push daggers.

Ahead of the ban, people are able to hand these items over safely and legally at police stations across England and Wales between 26 August and 23 September. During this period, there will be no repercussions for those handing them in.

Weapons can be disposed of by using safe, surrender bins, by contacting their local police, council or an anti-knife crime charity to find out about alternative options.

After 24 September, using safe, surrender bins, by contacting their local police, council or an anti-knife crime charity to find out about alternative options.

Policing Minister, Diana Johnson said: "Too many people have access to weapons that can lead to devastating, life-changing consequences. There is no legitimate need for a weapon of this kind to be in our homes or on our streets.

"That is why we will continue to make sure the tightest restrictions are in place to limit the availability of these lethal weapons. Implementing a ban on zombie-style knives is just the first step in our ambitious, dedicated plan to halve knife crime within a decade, and will closely be followed by making ninja swords illegal.

"It is absolutely crucial that members of the public come forward and safely hand in these weapons. We are offering people the chance to do the right thing – to help make our streets safer, prevent further loss of life and save so many futures.

"We cannot do this alone, political, policing and community leaders must work together to bring the knife crime epidemic to an end and offer a better future for our young people."