A compensation scheme for ninja swords is set to start next week.
From August 1 it will become illegal to possess, supply, sell, manufacture, or import a ninja sword.
From Tuesday, July 1, the scheme will begin, which means people surrendering qualifying items will be entitled to compensation via the Home Office.
Chief Inspector Sam Turner, of Cumbria police, said: “This is an opportunity for people in Cumbria to surrender their items before they become illegal, in a safe manner and without fear of repercussions.”
Ninja swords can be handed in at the following police stations throughout July:
Cumberland
- Carlisle
- Whitehaven
- Workington
Westmorland and Furness
- Barrow
- Kendal
- Penrith – Hunter Lane
People who hand in their ninja sword at a police station and are seeking compensation will be provided, upon request, with a surrender compensation form to complete.
Those wishing to claim more than the standard compensation need to provide appropriate proof of ownership and purchase to support the claim, at the time of surrender.
People are urged to take care in transporting their item to a police station.
They should ensure they do so safely and in a way that does not cause alarm to others. The item should remain covered securely stored until a police officer or member of police staff invite the owner to unwrap or otherwise present the item.
Cumbria Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “I would urge any resident in Cumbria that owns a ninja sword to hand it over to the police during July.
“Knife crime ruins lives and devastates communities. Carrying a knife in public will never be acceptable – especially when they are illegal to own.
“Help us protect Cumbria – hand over you ninja swords or any other weapons you may have in your home.”
