Ban on Zombie Knives and Machetes Takes Effect Amid Surge in Knife Crime

New legislation aims to curb the rising use of large blades in violent crimes, with penalties of up to four years in jail.

Police data shows crimes involving zombie knives, machetes, and swords have doubled in five years, reaching over 14,000 incidents in 2023.
The ban, effective Tuesday, prohibits the possession, sale, manufacture, or transport of zombie-style knives and machetes.
A four-week amnesty scheme allowed owners to surrender these weapons in exchange for their market value.
Knife crime in England and Wales rose by 7% in 2023, with significant increases in knifepoint robberies and knife-enabled homicides.
Law enforcement remains concerned about the ease of purchasing knives online, with illegal dealers often bypassing age verification.