A new amnesty scheme offering cash to those surrendering zombie knives and machetes has been launched across England and Wales in the lead-up to a ban set to take effect on September 24. As part of the government’s crackdown on knife crime, owners of these dangerous weapons are being encouraged to hand them in without fear of prosecution.

The four-week amnesty, which runs until September 23, provides a window for individuals to safely dispose of their weapons at designated police stations. Cash compensation is available for those who legally purchased the knives, which will soon be added to the UK’s prohibited weapons list alongside butterfly knives, samurai swords, and push daggers. The ban is intended to close legal loopholes that have allowed the sale and possession of these “statement” knives, often favoured by criminal gangs due to their menacing appearance and lethal design.

Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson emphasized the importance of public cooperation, urging individuals to “do the right thing” and hand over their weapons. “Too many people have access to weapons that can lead to devastating, life-changing consequences,” she said. The government has promised no repercussions for those who voluntarily surrender their zombie knives and machetes before the ban comes into force.

The ban is part of a broader initiative to combat the surge in knife crime across the country. Despite efforts to reduce violence, the UK continues to grapple with rising incidents, particularly among youth. Knives were involved in a record 49,000 offenses in 2022 alone. Zombie knives, with their double edges and aggressive serrated blades, have been linked to several high-profile attacks, prompting calls for stricter regulations.

While possessing zombie knives in public has long been illegal, a legal loophole has allowed their sale and possession in private if the blades did not feature violent imagery on their handles. This loophole will be closed under the new legislation, which will make it a criminal offense to own, make, transport, or sell these dangerous items. In addition, those found with such weapons after the ban takes effect could face time behind bars.

The scheme is part of the government’s wider strategy to halve knife crime within the next decade. However, some campaigners, including families of knife crime victims, argue that the ban is just one piece of the puzzle. Hayley Ryall, whose 16-year-old son was fatally stabbed with a zombie knife last year, remains skeptical. “Knives will still be available,” she said. “It might not be a zombie knife, but it could be a kitchen knife or anything.”