Zombie Knives Still Available Online Despite Recent Ban
More than a month after “zombie-style knives” were banned in England and Wales, BBC News investigation reveals these dangerous weapons remain readily accessible online, with some priced as low as £20.
The BBC purchased four knives from UK-based online retailers, demonstrating potential loopholes in the recent legislation. In September, the government made it an imprisonable offense to own, make, transport, or sell these “statement” knives typically favored by criminal gangs.
The investigation found that zombie-style knives are officially defined as blades over eight inches long with specific characteristics, including a sharp point, plain cutting edge, and additional features like serrated edges or multiple holes. Four out of five legal experts consulted agreed that the purchased knives appeared to meet the legal definition of banned weapons.
The BBC ordered knives from three retailers:
– Hunting&Knives sold two 18-inch serrated machetes (£19.99 and £30.83)
– HuntingCrossbows sold a “Defender Xtreme Hunting Combat knife” with a 10-inch blade (£34.99)
– NineFit sold a “Fantasy Master Skull Crusher” sword with a 20-inch blade (£60)
Two knives were shipped from overseas, raising questions about international shipping regulations. The retailers provided varying responses, with Hunting&Knives claiming to review and remove non-compliant items, while HuntingCrossbows described the knives as “cosplay or display” items.
Commander Stephen Clayman from the National Police Chiefs’ Council acknowledged the ban’s potential impact but suggested further legislative action might be necessary. The recent ban means large UK retailers will no longer sell these knives, which is considered a positive step.
The context of this investigation is significant, as knife crime remains a serious issue. Over 50,000 knife crime incidents were recorded in 2023-2024, representing a 4% increase from the previous year. The government has set a target to halve knife crime offenses by 2034.
Dr. Olumide Wole-Madariola, who tragically lost his 17-year-old son Malcolm to a zombie knife attack in 2018, strongly advocates for stricter regulations. He emphasized the devastating impact of these weapons, stating that each knife-related incident shatters lives and destroys futures.
The Home Office has responded by launching a rapid review into online knife sales and warning social media platforms about advertising such weapons. They are also consulting on banning “ninja swords” and emphasizing the importance of investigating potential illegal activities.
Border Force plays a crucial role in scanning international mail for prohibited items, though not every package is checked. The ongoing challenge remains preventing these dangerous weapons from reaching potential criminals.
The investigation highlights the ongoing need for comprehensive strategies to combat knife crime and protect communities.
