Chance to surrender zombie knives and machetes in Salisbury
The blades will become illegal from the end of September
A surrender and compensation scheme, aimed at getting zombie knives and machetes off our streets, is coming to Salisbury.
Certain bladed items can be taken to police stations including Bourne Hill from Monday (26th August) until September 23rd.
That's when the law of possessing these kinds of weapons changes, to make them illegal.
People taking in a knife for safe disposal will also be given an application form to claim compensation for its loss.
Superintendent Guy Elkins from Wiltshire Police said:
“This is welcome legislation that clarifies and enhances existing regulations which prohibit the sale and ownership of the types of knives we see all too often used in the commission of violent crimes or in the hands of young people on our streets around the UK.
“From September 24th, police will be able to seize any such weapons they find and prosecute the owner. Possession of banned weapons, even if just in a drawer at home, can mean a prison sentence of more than four years.
“The full criteria on which weapons are eligible for compensation and the amount that can be claimed is available on the Government website, but I want to highlight the aspect of how to safely surrender any items which do meet the criteria.
“All weapons must be securely contained and not displayed at any time until requested by an officer or member of police staff. Please ensure you follow these requirements as it is vital to ensure the safety of both members of the public and police officers and staff."
Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said:
"There is absolutely no practical use for these kinds of zombie-style weapons whatsoever, and I welcome the compensation scheme to give people the chance to hand over their weapons ahead of the new legislation.
“Whilst statistically Wiltshire may have some of the lowest levels of knife crime in the country, we’ve seen all too often how carrying a knife has led to serious injury and in the most tragic cases, loss of life.
“The focus of my office will be to continue to educate people around the dangers of carrying any type of bladed weapon and the risks they face if they’re caught by the police.”