Weapons collectors and historians have been warned about impending law changes which will make it illegal to own samurai swords and flip knives. Changes to the Offensive Weapons Act 2019 are expected later this year, and will mean items such as curved swords, with a blade larger than 50cm, and flip knives will no longer be legal to have in the home.

Specialist detectives from Northumbria Police’s Crime Department have been making visits to weapons collectors, historians, and tradespeople to prevent them from inadvertently breaking the new legislation. Firearms intelligence officers have recovered 17 knives and eight samurai swords during almost 40 engagement visits as part of Operation Sceptre to assist collectors in complying with the upcoming changes and avoid prosecution.

Members of the public have also voluntarily handed in more than 200 bladed items to the police to ensure compliance with the new regulations. The aim of these efforts is to educate and support individuals who may be affected by the alterations to the law, ensuring a smooth transition and adherence to the updated regulations.