‘Zombie knives’ and machetes: South Wales Police supports national surrender month ahead of introduction of tougher laws

From September 24, 2024, it will be an offence to possess ‘zombie-style’ knives and machetes in the UK.

The changes to the Criminal Justice Act will also prohibit the manufacture, importation, sale and general supply of such weapons.

Ahead of the change in the law, we will be supporting a month-long Home Office surrender scheme, allowing people to safely surrender such weapons to designated police stations.

During the surrender period, which runs from Monday, August 26 to Monday, September 23, those surrendering zombie style knives and machetes will not face prosecution for the illegal possession at the point of surrender. They can also remain anonymous.

Superintendent Esyr Jones, knife crime lead for South Wales Police, urged anyone currently in possession of such a weapon to take the opportunity to dispose of it safely during the month.

Supt Jones said:

“Knife crime continues to affect only a small minority of our population, but that small minority is still too many.

“We are continuing to work hard to ensure it isn’t a problem which escalates in south Wales, through our multi-agency #NotTheOne education and awareness campaign.

“But we will also be relentless in bringing perpetrators to justice.

“These style of knives and machetes are clearly designed to intimidate and cause harm, so as a police service we welcome this ban.

“I’d urge anyone in possession of such a weapon to do the right thing and take this opportunity being afforded to them ahead of the ban being introduced.”

During the surrender month, zombie style machetes and knives can be surrendered at the following stations:

• Swansea Central
• Neath
• Merthyr Tydfil Bridewell
• Bridgend Bridewell
• Pontypridd
• Barry
• Cardiff Bay

Current lawful owners of specified zombie knives and machetes will be able to submit a claim for compensation at the same time that they surrender the weapons to us under the Home Office scheme.

Further details of the surrender scheme, a list of items covered, their definition and guidance on how to transport them safely can be found by visiting the Home Office's dedicated web page.