Ninja Sword Ban Comes into Force: New Law Targets Knife Crime Surge in England and Wales
From 1 August 2025, it is now illegal to possess, manufacture, import, or sell ninja swords in England and Wales, as the UK government enacts sweeping new measures to address the country’s escalating knife crime crisis. The ban, which follows a month-long weapons amnesty, is a direct response to a series of high-profile attacks and growing public concern over the availability of dangerous bladed weapons.
Ronan’s Law: The Tragic Case Behind the Ninja Sword Ban
The new legislation is part of Ronan’s Law, named after 16-year-old Ronan Kanda, who was fatally stabbed with a ninja sword in Wolverhampton in 2022. Ronan’s mother, Pooja Kanda, has been a leading campaigner for tighter controls on bladed weapons after her son was killed in a case of mistaken identity. The weapon used in the attack was purchased online, highlighting the ease with which such items could previously be obtained. Ms Kanda said, “I firmly believe if it was in place years ago, my son would’ve been here today”[2].
Government Response: Amnesty and Crackdown on Online Sales
The ban comes after a national weapons amnesty throughout July, during which more than 1,000 bladed weapons, including ninja swords, were surrendered at designated bins and mobile collection vans[1][3]. The Home Office has emphasised that the crackdown is part of a broader strategy to halve knife crime within the next decade.
In addition to the ban, the government has pledged to introduce stricter age verification checks for knife buyers and to require online retailers to report suspicious or bulk orders to the police. Technology companies could face significant fines if their platforms fail to prevent illegal weapon sales[2].
Knife Crime in Context: Rising Offences and Public Outcry
Knife crime in England and Wales has risen by 87% over the past decade, with 54,587 offences recorded last year—a 2% rise from 2023 and among the highest rates in Europe[2][3]. The urgency for action was underscored by a tragic incident in July 2024, when a 17-year-old attacked a children’s dance recital in Southport, killing three girls and injuring ten others[1][3].
These events have fuelled calls for tougher enforcement and a comprehensive approach to tackling the root causes of knife crime, particularly among young people. The Association of Police and Crime Commissioners has stated its commitment to understanding why individuals choose to carry knives and to prevent further tragedies[1].
What the Ban Means: Legal Implications and Enforcement
As of August 2025, it is a criminal offence to possess, manufacture, import, or sell ninja swords in England and Wales. Offenders face up to four years in prison if found in public with such weapons[1]. The ban also extends to other bladed items such as zombie knives and machetes, as part of a broader legislative package.
The government has deployed mobile amnesty vans at major events, including the Notting Hill Carnival, to encourage further weapon surrenders and reduce the risk of knife-related violence[3].
Mixed Regional Trends: Knife Crime Falls in West Midlands, Rises in Greater Manchester
While the West Midlands has seen a 25% reduction in knife crime incidents in the past year, Greater Manchester recorded a 4% increase. These figures highlight the uneven impact of anti-knife crime initiatives and the ongoing challenge facing law enforcement and communities across the country[3].
Historical Perspective: The Ninja Sword in British Law and Culture
The ninja sword, or ninjatō, has long been associated with Japanese martial arts and popular culture. In recent years, however, its presence in the UK has become a symbol of the broader issue of dangerous weapons being easily accessible, particularly online. Previous bans on items such as zombie knives and flick knives have been implemented, but campaigners argue that comprehensive enforcement and public education remain essential.
Sources :
[1] https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/08/01/uk-ninja-sword-ban-begins-as-1000-bladed-weapons-surrendered-in-national-amnesty
[2] https://news.sky.com/story/mum-whose-teenage-son-was-murdered-with-ninja-sword-hails-new-law-named-after-him-13405088
[3] https://www.rte.ie/news/uk/2025/0801/1526472-uk-knife-amnesty/
[4] https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/article/uk-ninja-sword-ban-begins-as-1000-weapons-surrendered-in-knife-crime-crackdown/
Information : This article was made by compiling with AI several sources available on the Internet, which the aim is to get both contrasted and comprehensive information.
