Do you know the law on owning knives?

As of last year, 2021, the updated Offensive Weapons Act was brought in, making it an offence to possess specific items, including ‘knuckledusters’, ‘throwing stars’ and ‘zombie knives’, even in private.

There are also more stringent measures in place for online purchases. Anyone buying a knife online needs to provide age verification, and they cannot be delivered to a locker or other automated pick-up point.

Parcels containing knives will also need to be clearly labelled as bladed articles and delivery drivers will check for identification before handing it over.

The full measures, advice and list of banned items can be found here: Offensive Weapons Act (nbcc.police.uk)

Detective Sergeant Chris Ford, from Derbyshire Constabulary, has been overseeing the proactive work being conducted during Operation Sceptre.

He said: “It remains extremely important for us to educate people on the legislation, and particularly the updated elements, so that they know what is and isn’t legal.

“It’s really important to us that people in Derbyshire don’t accidentally fall foul of legislation which is still relatively new.

“This is also one of the main reasons why we run knife and weapons amnesty over the course of Operation Sceptre, to give people the opportunity to voluntarily dispose of weapons that are now illegal.

“It also means they can look out for, and report, any illegal or dangerous possessions.

“As part of Operation Sceptre over the past week, teams have been out engaging with members of the public, answering any questions, and also handing out flyers with some of they key information on, including around the law.”

“Derbyshire is absolutely a safe place and that is thanks to the continuous prevention work and efforts, like these, to ensure people are educated on the topic. As a result, we are dedicated to supporting campaigns, such as Operation Sceptre, and continuing our ongoing prevention work in all areas of the county so that it continues to be this way.”

 

If you are concerned about knife crime in your area or have information about someone who is carrying a knife contact us using the following non-emergency methods:
• Facebook – send us a private message to /DerbyshireConstabulary
• Twitter – direct message our contact centre on @DerPolContact
• Website – complete the online contact form www.derbyshire.police.uk/Contact-Us.
• Phone – call us on 101.
You can also anonymously contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111 or by visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org
Always ring 999 in an emergency.

#OpSceptre #DropTheKnife #KnivesShatterLives