Overview

• A new survey reveals 83% of 16–24-year-olds doubt that tougher knife purchase laws will reduce crime, with many believing alternative methods to obtain weapons will persist.
• Nearly half of young respondents report being directly affected by knife crime, either as victims or through someone they know.
• The UK Government has introduced measures such as mandatory reporting of suspicious knife sales, two-year prison terms for selling illegal weapons to minors, and significant fines for tech platforms failing to address knife-related content.
• A ban on ninja swords, making it illegal to possess, sell, or import them, will take effect on August 1, 2025.
• The Kiyan Prince Foundation calls for a public health approach, emphasizing mental health support, youth programs, and employment opportunities to address the root causes of knife crime.