Teenager arrested over attempt to import knife

A parcel from France containing a curved karambit knife was seized by Border Force officials

A teenager from Nottingham has been arrested after a parcel from France containing a knife was seized at the border.

Officers from Nottinghamshire Police visited the 18-year-old's address on Thursday after a parcel containing a curved karambit knife was seized by UK Border Force officials.

The force said the parcel was addressed to the man, who was arrested on suspicion of importing a prohibited weapon with intent to evade a prohibition/restriction.

"Remember - just because something is for sale online, it does not mean it is legal to import into or own in this country," said Sgt Jono Pothecary, investigation lead.

Police say offensive weapons which are designed to kill or inflict serious injury and do not have a legitimate use are banned from being imported into the UK.

The 18-year-old was also arrested for possession of a Class A drug after suspected ecstasy tablets were discovered during a search of his home address.

He was questioned in custody and later bailed pending further investigation work, the force added.

Sgt Pothecary said: "As a police force we regularly work alongside UK Border Force to prevent packages containing illegal weapons from being delivered.

"We also carry out visits to the people who ordered the items to ensure they are held responsible for attempting to bring lethal weapons into our communities.

"An online retailer will not stop you buying something which is illegal here in the UK – it’s up to you as an individual to be aware of the law."