Concerns new law will not keep ‘zombie’ knives off the streets

19 August 2024

West Midlands Police Federation deputy chair Jase Dooley has voiced his concern that new legislation to be introduced next month will not stop the supply of dangerous weapons.

Jase questioned the effectiveness of the Criminal Justice Act 1988 (Offensive Weapons) (Amendment, Surrender and Compensation) Order 2024 in removing weapons from the street and reducing crime.

The order introduces a ban on certain types of ‘zombie-style’ knives and machetes, including definitions of the weapons to be banned.

However, Jase fears that manufacturers will find a way around the legislation with weapons that are not subjected to the ban.

He said: “We all want to see these zombie-style knives off our streets but it’s vital that policies and legislation are effective.

“I’m concerned the legislation will still not address the continuing supply and sale of multiple weapons from hunting knives to types of swords and axes, some of which are sold as collector’s items.

Zombie knives

“Will the manufacturers and marketers of these weapons design them in a slightly different way that avoids the stipulations in the legislation?

A nationwide knife amnesty starts on Monday 26 August.

“It also won’t address weapons like swords or other machetes. And then there are cleavers and axes, which are being designed in all sorts of ways.

“Which is why we say we need an outright ban on these weapons, and a plain packaging requirement which bans the marketing of these weapons.”

Knife amnesty

His comments come as owners of zombie-style knives and machetes can claim compensation if they surrender the weapons to police before the ban comes in on 24 September.

Owners of these weapons can hand them in and receive compensation in return under the Home Office scheme.

The scheme starts on 26 August and runs until 23 September, the day before the ban comes into force.

Jase said: “This scheme is to allow owners to lawfully dispose of them before the legislation goes live, and anything that can help to get these weapons off our street is to be welcomed.

“However, as we’ve said on numerous occasions, we need a long-term strategy that focuses on prevention and deterrents.

“So, as well as a ban on their sale and marketing, police officers are supported and feel confident in using their powers, such as stop and search.

“And we need deterrents and certain jail time for repeat offenders, and probable jail time for first-time offenders.”