A new law is coming into force on September 24 which will make it illegal to own ‘zombie' style knives and machetes.
A 'zombie' knife is a type of ornate knife or bladed weapon inspired by zombie films and TV series.
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These are bladed weapons with:
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a plain cutting edge
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a sharp pointed end, and
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a blade of over eight inches long
Which also has one or more of the following:
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a serrated cutting edge over two inches long
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more than one hole in the blade
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spikes
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more than two sharp points in the blade
The new law will also cover the manufacture, supply sale and importation of the weapons.
Cumbria police has today reminded the public that anyone who lawfully owns these types of weapons can surrender them and submit a claim for compensation at the same time.
This is under the Surrender and Compensation Scheme for ‘zombie-style knives’ and ‘zombie-style machetes’.
The amnesty scheme started at midnight, August 26, 2024, and ends September 23, 2024.
Chief Inspector Kim Brown said: "We would urge owners of these specific knife varieties to hand them into us to surrender them legally and safely. It is a quick process, and your action will help make your community a safer place.
"From 24 September 2024 police will have powers under the new legislation to seize any such weapons and owners could be prosecuted. This includes weapons stored in your home.
"If you own a knife which you think may be affected by the new legislation please read our information page on our website."
Below is a list of Cumbrian police stations designated by chief officers for the purposes of receiving weapons surrendered under the Criminal Justice Act 1988 (Offensive Weapons).
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Barrow Police Station Andrews Way Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria LA14 2UE
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Kendal Police Station Busher Walk Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4RJ
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Workington Police Station Hall Brow Workington, Cumbria, CA14 4AP
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Durranhill Police Station Brunel Way Durranhill Industrial Estate Carlisle Cumbria CA1 3NQ
You will need to download and complete a form from the Cumbria Police website and bring it to the station along with some photo identification (such
as a valid passport or driving licence).
Cumbria police advise to do the following:
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Wrap your item in a sealed bag or box. It must stay covered at all times.
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Carry the completed claim form with you in case you're stopped by the police on the way to the police station.
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At the police station do not take the item out until you're asked to do so by a police officer or a member of police staff.
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You can also hand in knives anonymously by putting them in surrender bins which are available across the country.
For more information, visit the Cumbria police website.
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