North Yorkshire Police Reveal Knife Amnesty For July

Sunday, 29 June 2025 06:00

North Yorkshire Police is taking part in the Home Office surrender and compensation scheme for ninja swords throughout July.

From 1 August 2025, ninja swords will be banned, with possession after this date potentially leading to imprisonment for up to six months, increasing to two years under new measures in the Crime and Policing Bill.

What is a ninja sword?

They are swords with a blade length between 14 and 24 inches, with a single straight cutting edge and distinctive tanto-style point.

Where can you surrender these swords?

A full list of designated police stations: List of designated police stations (accessible) - GOV.UK

Here is the list of the police stations within North Yorkshire:

Harrogate - Beckwith Head Road, HG3 1FR

Northallerton - Alverton Court, Crosby Road, DL6 1BF

Scarborough - Northway, YO12 7AD

Richmond - I'Anson Road, DL10 4ND

Skipton - Otley Road, BD23 1EZ

York - Fulford Road, YO10 4BY

Only ninja swords can be handed in to the above police stations. For any other weapons, please find the locations of the knife bins here: Knife bins | North Yorkshire Police

Safe Packaging

When handing in your weapon, make sure you wrap it in newspaper, bubble wrap, or cloth, then place it in a sturdy bag or box that's completely sealed. Don't label the package and go directly to the surrender location without making stops. Carrying weapons openly is illegal, but going directly to surrender gives you a "good reason" for possession if stopped by police.

Compensation

Only ninja swords purchased before 27 March 2025 are eligible for compensation, and must be surrendered at designated police stations with proof of purchase. Full details including the forms needed to claim compensation can be found here: Ninja sword surrender and compensation scheme - GOV.UK

Don't keep your concerns to yourself

If you have a knife or weapon and need to check whether it is legal, you can get in touch with Police using the ‘contact us’ section of the website or by calling them on 101, then selecting option 1.

If you are worried about someone carrying a knife, you should contact officers on the number above or report it on the Police website.

If you’d prefer to remain anonymous, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.

You could also speak to a family member or trusted adult for advice, and they can help you report your concerns.

There is also a dedicated service provided by Crimestoppers for 11 to 18-year-olds called Fearless. Their website tells you how you can share information without giving your name and explains more about what happens when you do. It also has a section for parents and professionals who work with children and young people.

North Yorkshire Police added:

'Together we can end knife crime and ensure York and North Yorkshire remain the safe places to live and work, and places that we will always be proud to protect.'

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