Zombie-Style Knives Banned in Crackdown on Knife Crime
The government has taken a sharp step against knife crime. From 24 September, zombie-style knives and machetes join the official list of banned weapons under the Criminal Justice Act 1988. These sinister blades are no longer welcome on UK streets.
The Deadly Weapons Now Illegal
Zombie-style knives are defined by their terrifying size and design. Usually over 8 inches long, they boast serrated edges, spikes, and multiple sharp points. These weapons have no use other than to cause harm and intimidate.
“Many of these zombie-style knives and machetes are clearly designed to intimidate and cause harm, rather than serve any practical purpose,” said Commander Stephen Clayman, the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead on knife crime.
“The ban will help stop their manufacture and cut down how easily they end up in the wrong hands.”
How the Ban Will Be Enforced
Before the ban, the Home Office ran a surrender scheme allowing owners to hand in these weapons for compensation. That scheme ended on 23 September. Now, possession risks prosecution and jail time.
Anyone caught carrying a zombie-style knife or machete could face serious criminal charges. The government urges all holders to hand these weapons in at local police stations or surrender bins immediately.
More Measures to Curb Knife Crime
This ban is part of a wider crackdown. The government plans to outlaw ninja swords and tighten controls on online knife sales to block under-18 purchases. The Coalition to Tackle Knife Crime has also been launched, bringing together families, campaigners, and community leaders to stop knife violence.
Commander Clayman added: “Tackling knife crime needs all agencies pulling together. Reducing the availability of deadly weapons is a key part of that fight.”
With these fresh laws and ongoing efforts, the government aims to halve knife crime over the next decade and make Britain’s streets safer for all.
