Government Introduces Ban on Dangerous Zombie-Style Knives and Machetes to Keep Young People Safe
The UK government has announced new legislation to ban dangerous zombie-style knives and machetes in an effort to keep young people safe and reduce knife crime on the streets. The ban, set to come into force in September, will make it illegal to possess, sell, manufacture, or transport these weapons.
Individuals in possession of these knives are urged to voluntarily hand them into designated knife surrender bins before the official surrender and compensation scheme is launched in the summer. Those found with these weapons after the ban takes effect may face time behind bars.
The government is working with police, communities, and partners to raise public awareness of the surrender scheme and strengthen existing knife crime laws. Since 2019, police have confiscated 120,000 knives through targeted actions, resulting in a 5% decrease in knife crime and a 25% drop in hospital admissions for stabbings among under 25s.
The Criminal Justice Bill will increase the maximum sentence for possessing banned weapons from 6 months to 2 years and impose a 2-year prison term for selling knives to under-18s. Police will also have new powers to seize and destroy knives found on private premises if there are suspicions of criminal use.
Home Secretary James Cleverly emphasized the importance of preventing dangerous knives from reaching criminals and children, as well as investing in youth services to prevent violent injuries. The ban on zombie-style knives aims to close a loophole that allowed retailers to continue selling these weapons without facing legal consequences.
Steel Warriors, an organization that recycles confiscated knives into outdoor gyms and provides free community classes, supports the government’s efforts to keep dangerous weapons off the streets. The Home Secretary visited Kent Police to witness the impact of youth violence prevention projects and discuss further actions to tackle serious violence.
The legislation, which will amend the Criminal Justice Act 1988, reflects the government’s commitment to reducing knife crime and ensuring the safety of communities.