Dorset News | July 9, 2025
Dorset Police has joined a month-long government initiative aimed at removing ninja swords from the streets, ahead of a new law that will make possession of the weapons illegal across England and Wales.
From Friday, 1 August 2025, it will be a criminal offence to own, sell, or import ninja swords, defined as bladed weapons between 14 and 24 inches in length, typically with a tanto or reversed tanto-style point, and potentially featuring a second blade attached at an angle.
To prepare for the upcoming legislation, Dorset Police is encouraging residents to anonymously surrender such weapons as part of a national scheme that runs until Thursday, 31 July 2025. Those who turn in eligible weapons will be able to claim compensation.
Designated surrender stations in Dorset include:
- Bournemouth Police Station, Madeira Road
- Poole Police Station, Wimborne Road
- Weymouth Police Station, Radipole Lane
Opening times for these locations are available on the Dorset Police website.
Chief Inspector Andy Bell, the force’s lead on knife crime, emphasised the importance of the initiative:
“Although Dorset has one of the lowest rates of knife crime, we do take these offences very seriously and will continue to educate the public and aim to remove knife crime from the streets.
People may not even be aware that it soon becomes illegal for them to own a ninja sword – even if they keep it at home.
I’d urge anyone with a knife that meets the criteria to take this opportunity to surrender it and claim compensation. I’d also urge them to suggest friends and family members take advantage of this opportunity too.”
The scheme forms part of the government’s broader strategy to tackle violent crime and prevent dangerous weapons from falling into the wrong hands.
Residents can find detailed guidance on eligible weapons and safe transport procedures via the government website:
👉 gov.uk – Ninja Sword Surrender and Compensation Scheme
If you have concerns about someone carrying a knife, report it to Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, or anonymously via CrimeStoppers UK on 0800 555 111.
In an emergency or if a crime is in progress, always call 999.
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