Zombie-style knives and machetes ban – an overview

From 24 September 2024, it became illegal to possess or sell zombie-style knives and machetes in England and Wales, as part of new measures to reduce knife crime. 

Figures reveal that crimes involving machetes, swords, and zombie knives have almost doubled in five years. We also know that you are more likely to be injured if you carry a knife. 
 
You can contact us 100% anonymously via our website or by calling our UK Contact Centre on 0800 555 111 which is open 24/7, 365 days a year to tell us about any crime. Over 2,000 people trust our charity with their information every day.  
 
Alternatively, young people can visit our youth service Fearless.org where more can be learnt about knife crime. 
 
It's important to remember that we are not a replacement for the emergency services. If something is happening that needs immediate action - ring 999.
 
Features of these banned blades can be found in this Home Office guide.
 
The zombie-style knives and machetes surrender scheme ended on 23 September. Anyone still in possession of these weapons can safely hand them into their local police station or local surrender bin immediately.
 
27 September 2024