'Zombie' knife surrender begins ahead of ban

Zombie knives will be illegal to own from 24 September 2024.

A police force is asking people to surrender 'zombie-style' knives and machetes as part of a government scheme.

Wiltshire Police says eligible weapons can be handed in at Swindon Gablecross, Trowbridge, Chippenham or Salisbury police stations from Bank Holiday Monday.

Anyone who chooses to surrender a weapon will be able to apply for compensation.

The scheme is part of preparations nationwide for new legislation beginning on 24 September, which will make it illegal to own a zombie knife or machete.

Superintendent Guy Elkins said non-eligible weapons can still be surrendered at some Wiltshire police stations.

Wiltshire Police has issued guidance on how to surrender a weapon:

• Weapons should be made safe to handle for yourself and for the police, and be contained in a manner that allows them to be transported without causing distress or alarm to other members of the public.

• Knives or machetes should be wrapped up and placed in a sealed bag or box. They must not be carried openly at any time;

• Weapons should not be taken out at the police station until you are requested to do so by a police officer or member of police staff.

Swindon hub commander Superintendent Guy Elkins said that from 24 September, possession of a banned weapon "even if just in a drawer at home" could lead to a prison sentence of more than four years.

“If you have a bladed article which doesn’t meet the criteria but you’d like to safely surrender, please remember we have several permanent surrender bins in Swindon and one in Devizes," he added.

Full details of the terms and conditions for the knife surrender can be found on the Wiltshire Police website.