Cumbrians found with zombie knives will be arrested according to the police, fire and crime commission (PFCC) as the month-long amnesty ends.
Cumbria Police have been running an amnesty opportunity for the surrender of ‘zombie-style’ knives and machetes across the county from Monday, August 26 to Monday, September 23
The amnesty was part of a national Surrender and Compensation scheme launched by the Home Office ahead of new legislation which came into effect on September 24
The new law will make it illegal to own certain types of ‘zombie knives’ and machetes and will cover the manufacture, supply sale and important of the weapons.
Anyone lawfully owning these types of weapons will be able to surrender the weapon and submit a claim for compensation at the same time under the amnesty scheme.
Cumbria’s PFCC, David Allen said: "Knife crime has a detrimental effect on not only the victim but on families, friends, and communities as a whole.
"There is absolutely no need for anyone to be carrying zombie knives or machetes on our streets or own one at all.
“The fact is if you carry it, you are more likely to use it, have it used against you or encourage others to do so - and this is what we want to avoid.
“To be very clear - after the amnesty has ended on 24 September, if you are caught with these types of knives, you will face prosecution.
“Cumbria is a safe place to live and we all want to protect the county’s safety so it is imperative that we work together to reduce knife crime in to the county."
Mr Allen also encouraged residents to voice any concerns about crime in their area, or about the constabulary or Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service, to him directly.
READ MORE: Plea issued to dog owners after lamb dies in attack near Frizington
Carlisle MP Julie Minns added: "The Government is committed to halving serious violence, and rebuilding confidence in policing and the criminal justice system.
"This is the first – and necessary - step in a series of actions locally and nationally, to steer teenagers away from crime.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here