Police to pay £10 for zombie knives in new amnesty

Police will pay at least £10 for zombie knives and machetes handed in during a new month-long amnesty scheme that launches on Monday, August 26.

New legislation comes into force next month that toughens sanctions on the manufacture, supply, sale, possession and importation of hunting-style blades. 

The compensation will apply to knives that are 8 inches or longer, which have 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 

“The standard compensation for each item is £10,” reads a statement from GMP. “If you think your item is worth more, you can claim for the higher amount with supporting evidence. 

“All claim forms will be sent to the Home Office for processing.” 

There is, however, a £30 minimum threshold for claiming money back. 

“We remain committed and determined to ensure the impact of knife crime is tackled head on with robust policing and effective education,” said GMP Superintendent Caroline Hemingway, who leads the force’s knife crime response. 

“Prevention is prioritised, and we do a lot of work in schools and with health partners. It’s not just about policing our way out of the issue. What this scheme will do is give us the opportunity to take more knives off the streets, but potentially save lives.” 

Kate Green, Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester for Policing and Crime added: “In December we launched the Greater than Violence strategy – a 10-year strategy to prevent and reduce knife crime. 

“By implementing the commitments outlined in the strategy we will improve lives by preventing violence and providing alternatives to those at risk of becoming victims, witnesses, or perpetrators, including education programmes, community sports, targeted mentoring, and therapeutic support.” 

11 police stations throughout Greater Manchester will have surrender points for zombie knives, including Ashton.  

Those handing in knives must download and fill in a Surrender and Compensation Scheme Form, which should be carried on the way to the station in case they are stopped by police. 

All blades must be in a box or wrapped in a sealed bag. 

The tougher laws, which include a potential two years in prison for those selling zombie knives, come into effect on September 24.