Amnesty for ninja swords

Dear Resident

We will be conducting an amnesty for the surrender of ninja swords, between 1 July and 31 July.

The amnesty is part of a national scheme preceding a new law that will come into force from 1 August, which will make it illegal to own swords that meet the criteria set out by the Government.

The criteria set out in the new law is quite specific –straight bladed swords between 14-24 inches long, with a primary and secondary straight cutting edge and blunt spine qualify.

Ahead of the law change, the government is introducing a surrender and compensation scheme for those that currently own such swords.

The amnesty will begin next week (Tuesday 1 July), during which swords can be surrendered at Hatfield, Stevenage and Watford police stations. The locations and opening times of these stations can be found here: www.herts.police.uk/stations.

Anyone surrendering items that meet the criteria will be eligible for compensation, under the government scheme. Details can be found at Ninja sword surrender and compensation scheme - https://orlo.uk/ksAj3

Chief Superintendent Nev Hanks, who is leading the campaign, said: “The amnesty is a chance for anyone who is in possession this type of weapon to surrender it legally and safely. Once the new legislation comes into force police will be able to seize any such weapons they find and prosecute the owner. Possession of banned weapons, even if just in a drawer at home, can mean a prison sentence of more than four years.

“The criteria set out in the new law is quite specific – generally, any sword with a straight blade between 14-24 inches long with a primary and secondary straight cutting edge and blunt spine qualify, so if you own a sword which you think might be affected, please visit https://orlo.uk/5y8mO and read the details.”

#Dacorum