Norfolk Constabulary welcomes new knife legislation

Norfolk Constabulary is welcoming new legislation that will make it illegal to own certain styles of ‘zombie’ knives and machetes.

The new law, which will come into force from Tuesday 24 September 2024, is aimed at removing specific types of knives from circulation and prohibits the sale and importation of knives that meet the criteria.

Ahead of this, the government is introducing a surrender and compensation amnesty scheme for those who currently own these types of knives. Anyone surrendering knives that meet the criteria will be eligible for compensation, under the government scheme, and detailed guidance on the kinds of knives that will become illegal and eligible for surrender with compensation can be found on the Gov.UK website.

The amnesty scheme will run between Monday 26 August and Monday 23 September, before the ban comes into force.

During this time owners of knives which qualify for the scheme are asked to complete a compensation form from the Gov.UK website, and bring it, along with the knife, to one of the following places in Norfolk:

• Great Yarmouth Public Enquiry Office
• King’s Lynn Public Enquiry Office
• Wymondham Police Investigation Centre

Inspector Ian Cox, who is leading the amnesty scheme for Norfolk police, said: “Knife crime has devastating effects for families and communities who experience the tragic loss of life as a result.

“Tackling knife-related crime remains a priority for Norfolk Constabulary and we welcome measures which make it more difficult for people to obtain zombie-style weapons.

“The new law states that any knife over eight inches in length and with one - or more - serrated edge could meet the requirement of a banned knife.

“Carrying a knife in public is an offence and it is important that everyone realises that possession of an offensive weapon carries a sentence of four years in prison.

“Norfolk Constabulary will continue to take a proactive approach to raise awareness and reduce offending. We remain committed to preventing and reducing knife crime, and continue to work closely with partners and schools to achieve this.”

Further detail can be found Compensation scheme for 'zombie' knives and machetes - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)