Listen Live

Police Urge Bedford Residents to Surrender ‘Ninja Swords’ before National Ban.

Police urge Ninja Sword owners to surrender their weapons.

Bedfordshire Police is urging people in Bedford to hand in dangerous weapons known as ninja swords before a nationwide ban comes into force next month.

From Tuesday 1 July, a month-long weapons surrender begins, allowing residents to give up ninja swords before new legislation makes them illegal on 1 August.

Ninja swords are defined as having a single-edged, straight blade between 14 and 24 inches long, with a distinctive tanto-style point. After 31 July, owning one could result in arrest and a criminal conviction, including a potential prison sentence.

Weapons can be surrendered safely at Bedfordshire Police Headquarters in Kempston, either by attending during open hours (Tuesday–Thursday, 10am–3pm), or by booking an appointment via 101.

Inspector Liz Spurling said: “By surrendering these weapons, residents are not only staying on the right side of the law, but potentially saving lives – including their own.”

Swords purchased before 27 March 2025 may be eligible for government compensation, with proof of purchase required. Further details and claim forms are available on the GOV.UK website.

Anyone transporting a sword for surrender should ensure it is securely wrapped and concealed, and only unwrapped when instructed by police staff.

More from Local News

What's happening on Black Cat Radio

Recently Played