Change in law prompts weapons amnesty
SOUTH Wales Police has begun an anonymous offensive weapon surrender scheme, giving the public an opportunity to hand in weapons to get them off the streets and help prevent serious violence.
The scheme runs until 20th December and it is now an offence to possess weapons at home.
Changes to legislation brought about by the Offensive Weapons Act 2019 earlier this year means that it is now an offence to possess certain items such as knuckledusters, throwing stars and zombie knives, even in private.
It also includes an updated definition of flick knives to reflect changes in weapon designs, and the banning of private possession of flick knives and gravity knives. It was already illegal to possess a knife or offensive weapon in public. Bridgend Police Station (CF31 1BZ); Barry Police Station (CF63 1TD); Cardiff Bay Police Station (CF63 1TD); Cardiff Central Police Station (CF10 3NN).
This scheme is in addition to weapon and knife amnesties that are routinely conducted by police forces.
Detective Chief Inspector Jason Herbert said: “While very few people regularly carry knives in South Wales, we remain committed to tackling knife crime.
“Every weapon surrendered via this scheme will mean one less weapon which has the potential to get into the wrong hands. Please do take advantage of this scheme – doing so could save a life.”
Further guidance is available via the Home Office including a full list of items covered, guidance on how to travel with and surrender weapons safely, and compensation levels.
