New law bans 'zombie' knives as police launch surrender and compensation scheme

Why it matters: The law aims to remove dangerous weapons from circulation and reduce knife-related crime in Suffolk. Only this week we reported that knife crime re-offending rates in Suffolk hit highest levels in a decade.

The big picture:

• Knives over 8 inches long with one or more serrated edges will be banned
• Owners can surrender eligible knives at select police stations for compensation
• Possessing a banned weapon carries a potential prison sentence of up to 4 years

What they're saying: Sgt Steve Wright, leading the amnesty scheme, said, "We welcome these measures that will make it more difficult for people to obtain zombie-style weapons, often used for the purposes of violence, and is an important development that will help us tackle knife-related criminality in Suffolk."

Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore added, "Anything that helps removes knives from circulation and prohibits the sale and importation of knives has my full support."

How it works:

1. Check if your knife meets the criteria here
2. Download and complete the compensation form
3. Bring the form and knife to designated police stations in Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, or Lowestoft

The bottom line: Suffolk Constabulary urges anyone considering carrying a knife to reconsider, emphasising that it does not increase personal safety.