As of 24 September 2024, the law is changing making it illegal to possess a zombie-style knife or machete.
Ahead of the change, a Surrender and Compensation Scheme was launched in August allowing legal owners of zombie-style knives and machetes to surrender them to police and claim compensation.
This scheme is in place until 23 September and owners can bring in their weapons to police stations across Cumbria.*
The amnesty comes ahead of new legislation coming into effect on 24 September which broadens the classification of zombie knives and gives police new powers to seize and destroy these dangerous weapons.
Weapons which fall under the new law and are eligible to be handed in for compensation are bladed weapons with:
- A plain cutting edge
- A sharp pointed end and
- A blade over 8 inches long
Which also has one or more of the following:
- a serrated cutting edge over two inches long
- more than one hole in the blade
- spikes
- more than two sharp points in the blade
Anyone found to be in possession of a weapon matching the above descriptions after 24 September could be prosecuted.
Eligible knives and machetes can be handed in at the following police stations until 23 September:
- Carlisle Durranhill Station – Brunel Way, CA1 3NQ
- Workington Station – Hall Brow CA14 4AP
- Barrow Station – Andrews Way LA14 2UE
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday – 8am – 6pm. Sunday 10m – 4pm
- Kendal Station – Busher Walk LA9 4RJ
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8am-4pm. Saturday 8am-12pm. Sunday - Closed.
*Important information around attending a station
You must bring photo identification with you to a station in order to take part in the surrender and compensation scheme.
Officers are requesting weapons be transported from your address directly to a police station in a private vehicle (not public transport). You item must be wrapped in sealed bag or box. It must always stay covered and out of sight during transportation so as not to cause alarm in or around police stations.