MORE than 1,000 zombie-style knives and machetes have been handed in across Somerset ahead of a ban on the weapons which came into effect on Tuesday (September 24).

The Avon and Somerset Police-led campaign resulted in weapons being dumped anonymously at surrender bins, including those in Minehead, Bridgwater and Taunton

The ban makes it illegal to possess, sell, or manufacture zombie-style knives and machetes. These items, characterised by blades longer than eight inches and often serrated, are being added to the list of prohibited weapons under the Criminal Justice Act 1988.

Anyone caught with these weapons could face prosecution. 

To help the public comply with the new law, the Home Office set up a surrender and compensation scheme, allowing people to safely hand over the weapons at local police stations. 

Avon and Somerset Police had a total of 25 surrender sites across the force and and received more than 1,000 weapons.  

Chief Inspector Mike Vass commented: “We are pleased to see so many people handing in these dangerous weapons. One business in particular surrendered a large number, preventing them from potentially falling into the wrong hands and causing harm.  

“We should not be seeing these types of weapons in the hands of young people in our communities, we are committed to ensuring anyone in possession of these either face the appropriate prosecutions or know how and where to safely surrender them as soon as possible.” 

Anyone who owns a zombie-style knife or machete is urged to hand it in now. Surrender bins are available year-round at several police stations and public locations. 

Carrying a knife does not increase individual safety – it increases the likelihood of injury. For more information on where to safely surrender weapons and to learn about staying safe from knife crime, visit this website: https://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/crime-prevention-advice/protect-yourself-and-others-from-knife-crime/

Anyone who is concerned or suspect someone may be carrying a knife are urged to: