Category: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council

‘Zombie-style’ knives and ‘zombie-style’ machetes will be added to list of prohibited offensive weapons.

• Changes to the Criminal Justice Act 1988 will add ‘zombie-style’ knives and ‘zombie style’ machetes to the list of prohibited offensive weapons.
• A Home Office surrender and compensation scheme begins at 00:00hrs 26 August 2024 and runs until 23.59hrs 23 September 2024 for anyone who owns these weapons.
• Ban aimed at reducing accessibility of some deadly weapons

Anyone in possession of a zombie-style knife or machete is being encouraged to surrender it under a new Home Office scheme, before these weapons are added to the list of prohibited offensive weapons.

Once the amendment to the Criminal Justice Act 1988 comes into force from 00:00hrs on 24 September 2024, it will be an offence to possess weapons which meet the specified criteria, in a move which aims to reduce the accessibility of some of the deadliest types of knives.

If you have a weapon which meets the criteria, you can surrender it at your nearest designated police station under the scheme which opens at 00:00hrs 26 August 2024 and runs until 23.59hrs 23 September 2024. Compensation will be paid by the Home Office if the weapons being surrendered meet the criteria.[1]

Commander Stephen Clayman is National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for knife crime. He said:

“Tackling knife crime requires all agencies and partners working together, approaching this from a number of different angles. Dealing with the accessibility of deadly weapons is key and we are doing all we can to reduce how readily and easily they can end up in the wrong hands. Many of these ‘zombie-style’ knives and machetes are clearly designed to intimidate and cause harm, rather than serve any practical purpose, so the ban will support us by significantly reducing their availability.

“I would urge anyone in possession of a knife soon to be become prohibited to do the right thing and surrender it. To be clear from the 24^th September you will be liable to arrest and prosecution if found with such a weapon.  If you don’t wish to take part in or are not eligible for the compensation scheme you can surrender any knives or weapons at a suitable knife bin which are readily available across the country.”

The new legislation followed an extensive public consultation in 2023 with proposed measures developed in partnership between the Home Office and NPCC Knife Crime Working Group.

The working group continues to engage with Government and retailers to develop additional measures to reduce the availability of knives, particularly those readily accessible online.

Full details of the surrender and compensation scheme can be found here 

Criteria for weapons which will be illegal to possess following 24 September 2024:

The weapon sometimes known as a ‘zombie-style’ knife or ‘zombie-style’ machete, being a bladed article with—

• (i) a plain cutting edge;
• (ii) a sharp pointed end; and
• (iii) a blade of over eight inches in length (the length of the blade being the straight-line distance from the top of the handle to the tip of the blade),

which also has one or more of the following features, the specified features are:

• — (a) a serrated cutting edge (other than a serrated cutting edge of up to two inches next to the handle);
• (b) more than one hole in the blade;
• (c) spikes;
• (d) more than two sharp points in the blade other than:
  • o (a) a sharp point where the angle between the edges which create the point is an angle of at least 90 degrees (where there is a curved edge, the angle will be measured by reference to the tangent of the curve);
  • o (b) a sharp point on the cutting edge of the blade near the handle.

[1] No compensation will be payable in respect of a claim where the total is less than £30. This means that if you have one item to surrender you will not be eligible for compensation, but if you have three items at £10 each, you will be eligible to claim £30 of compensation for the three items.

Today (19 August) the Children’s Commissioner will publish new data on children being strip searched by police in England and Wales.

Assistant Chief Constable Andrew Mariner, the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for stop and search, said:

“Intimate searches can be highly intrusive and emotive encounters, and can leave an emotional impact long after they happen, which is especially true in the case of children.

“I do not underestimate the seriousness of this subject and the importance of the report by the Children’s Commissioner, and it was reassuring to read where progress is being made. However, I agree with the report’s findings, and recognise that more needs to be done at a pace, by both those policing and others operating in this space.

“The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) is working with the Home Office, the College of Policing, and others, to make changes to the codes of practice governing strip searches.

“We are also working with the College of Policing on refining existing training for officers that explicitly teach the trauma that these types of searches can have on individuals and communities. Work is also underway to review training for other ranks, including managers and senior leaders.

“We will also conduct a full review of our Authorised Professional Practice in respect of stop and search. This detailed and wide-ranging review will seek to examine all aspects of stop and search, including strip searches, and make any necessary changes to policing policy and national practices.

“Two years on from the shocking case of Child Q, we are seeing progress being made. I welcome this shift, and I am cautiously optimistic about the potential to overcome entrenched systemic challenges, but there is still urgent work to be done: too many strip searches carried out are unnecessary, unsafe and under-reported.  

“I am particularly reassured by the progress in London by the Metropolitan Police, but today’s research serves as a stark reminder that this is not an isolated issue in the capital. A much higher threshold should be met before a child is subjected to what we know can be a traumatising search. 

“This summer we have seen the vital importance of responsive, trusted policing in our communities. We need a culture of trust to be built between children and the police, so it’s vital that improvements continue, with fewer searches carried out, better data recording when they do, and that good practice and improvements are identified and modelled across the country.” 

We expect these figures to continue rising in the coming weeks as investigations continue and our communities begin to recover

Police chiefs confirm more than 1,000 arrests have been made following the recent outbreaks of violent disorder.

The ongoing activity follows the unrest which spiralled after the tragic killing of three young girls in Southport last month.

Officers and prosecutors across the country have been working tirelessly to identify individuals involved in the riots as well as those responsible for spreading and inciting hate online – and bring them to justice.

Since July 29, police have a made a total of 1,117 arrests and identified hundreds more suspects in connection with the disorder. Together, policing and the CPS have brought a total number of 677 charges.

Police and prosecutors have been working tirelessly

Police chiefs confirm more than 1,000 arrests have been made following the recent outbreaks of violent disorder.

The ongoing activity follows the unrest which spiralled after the tragic killing of three young girls in Southport last month.

Officers and prosecutors across the country have been working tirelessly to identify individuals involved in the riots as well as those responsible for spreading and inciting hate online – and bring them to justice.

Since July 29, police have a made a total of 1024 arrests and identified hundreds more suspects in connection with the disorder. Together policing and the CPS have brought a total number of 575* charges.

Chief Constable BJ Harrington, the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) lead for public order said:

“Forces have been united across the country, determined to send a clear message to those involved in the physical destruction of our streets, sustained violence against officers and spread of online hate.

“I am pleased we have now made more than 1000 arrests and almost 600 charges. We expect these figures to continue rising in the coming weeks as investigations continue and our communities begin to recover.

“While the situation seems to have stabilised over the last few days, I know it will leave an imprint on our communities and on our officers for years to come and I’d like to thank them once again for their continued support.”

 Kris Venkatasami, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS South East and National Protest Lead, said:

“This week our prosecutors have continued to work round-the-clock to authorise charges speedily and secure convictions for those involved in the ugly disorder and violence we have seen – and as of yesterday evening the Crown Prosecution Service had charged 389* people.

“We expect this number to grow as we continue to authorise more charges – and it is likely that we will see some of the most serious offences coming through the system in due course.

“Our close joint working with police forces across the country has allowed us to respond quickly to violent unrest to maintain public order and see swift justice served – and we will continue to make sure that those causing disruption in our communities, and inciting violence and hate online, face the consequences of their actions.”

Situation stabilising but Northern Ireland facing significant challenges

Chief Constable BJ Harrington is National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for public order:

“Policing continues to stand strong and unified, with hard work and dedication from all of our workforce in the face of daily challenges.

“The situation in England, Scotland and Wales has somewhat stabilised over the last few days but our colleagues in Northern Ireland have overnight experienced awful violence with significant injuries experienced by officers on the frontline and we are doing all we can to support them.

“We have seen and continue to see bravery and the utmost professionalism from our officers, staff and volunteers in dealing with these abhorrent incidents of violent disorder. No one should have to face the prospect of injury or abuse in their work and our thoughts are with all of those who have suffered injuries in the course of their duties.

“We are working around the clock to bring offenders to justice and ensure the safety of our communities.”

Identifying and investigating those inciting violent disorder

Specialist officers have been tasked with pursuing online offenders and so-called influencers responsible for spreading hate and inciting violence on a large scale in the wake of violent disorder incidents over the last two weeks. 

Teams from across the country working as part of the national network of Regional Organised Crime Units (ROCUs) have confirmed they are investigating hundreds of leads. 

Leads from the Serious and Organised Crime team are working with Counter Terrorism Policing and other national agencies to review content across a range of social media sites and platforms.  

Officers will work together to build a clear intelligence picture of those believed to be organising and influencing violence both online, and in the real world.   

Content will then be assessed by a senior investigator to determine if it meets the criminal threshold and offenders will then be identified, arrested and charged.   

Chief Constable Chris Haward, the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for Serious and Organised Crime said:

“Let me be clear – inciting violence and encouraging mass disorder are incredibly serious offences.   

“This past week our communities have suffered in a number of ways – people have fallen victim to hate crimes and officers have been subjected to sustained violence and a number of important community buildings have been destroyed.  

“But this abhorrent activity didn’t happen by itself. Large crowds and gatherings didn’t mobilise spontaneously.   

“It was the result of dozens of so-called influencers, exploiting the outpouring of grief from the tragic loss of three young girls in Southport. They knowingly spread misinformation, stoked the flames of hatred and division and incited violence from the comfort of their own homes – causing chaos on other people’s doorsteps.   

“Anyone who has been a part of this appalling behaviour should be aware that we have specialist officers from the ROCU network monitoring content and working at pace to identify you.   

“Online crimes have real world consequences and you will be dealt with in the same way as those physically present and inflicting the violence. These crimes are deplorable and we will do everything in our power to bring offenders to justice.”  

Relentless detective work and partnership with criminal justice partners will continue 

• Thousands of officers stood up into the weekend as national mobilisation continues to keep communities safe 
• Detectives and prosecutors working round the clock to build and charge cases against rioters and those spreading online hate 
• Police focused on restoring order to help communities recover 

Police chiefs have vowed continued action against offenders as investigations into the recent disorder and online organisers goes into overdrive. 

In the past week almost 600 arrests have been made and around 150 people charged in connection with violent disorder – with hundreds more suspects identified.  

It follows widespread disorder following the tragic killing of three young girls in Southport. 

 Forces have confirmed they are prepared and ready, with 6,000 public order trained officers to remain on duty in the coming days.  

Supported by detectives, community officers, staff and volunteers, policing is focused on protecting communities, so they can recover and reunite. 

So far, forces have:  

• Made a total of 595 arrests for offences ranging from violent disorder to theft and antisocial behaviour.  

• Identified hundreds more suspects who will be arrested in the coming days and weeks thanks to technology like facial recognition.   

• Scoured thousands of hours of CCTV, drone footage, BWV and online content as investigations continue at pace.  

• Ensured more custody cells and prison places are available so those responsible for serious disorder can be dealt with robustly.  

The swift results are the combination of relentless detective work and continued partnership with criminal justice partners. 

Despite a calmer two nights in towns and cities across the country, policing leads have reassured communities they are ready and prepared, so that people can enjoy the many planned events this summer weekend. 

Chief Constable Gavin Stephens, National Police Chiefs’ Council Chair, said: 

“We are working hard to bring this disorder to an end, but arrests are just getting started – and we have already made hundreds. We won’t stop until communities get the justice they deserve after suffering such violence and the spreading of online hate. 

“While the previous two nights have been a welcome break from the appalling scenes of the last week, and may have reached a turning point, we are by no means complacent.  

“Thousands of specially trained officers remain on duty, ready to tackle any unrest and disorder, and we continue to monitor, gather and review intelligence to make sure our officers are where they need to be to keep their communities safe. 

“We are doing everything we can to protect people so that they can enjoy a summer weekend, with many planned sporting fixtures and community celebrations. 

“Our message to those involved in violence is that we continue to comb through thousands of images, live streams and videos as well as body worn footage to find you. 

“We are grateful to those who are calling us to identify those in the images circulated by forces.  We are also grateful for the many messages of support to the officers, staff and volunteers that have faced hatred, racial abuse and violence whilst doing their job. 

“Once again, I like to extend a message of thanks to our communities, who deserve better than the violent scenes of the last week.  

“To our officers, staff and volunteers thank you for your continued professionalism and resilience during this challenging time.”  

Stephen Parkinson, Director of Public Prosecutions, said:

“Ahead of the weekend, more than 100 extra CPS prosecutors stand ready to respond rapidly to emerging requirements for charging decisions and advice.  

“We understand the deterrence impact of a swift and robust response from law enforcement.  Our aim is to make immediate charging decisions where we can, to enable courts to sentence within days.  

“My advice to anyone considering taking part in violent disorder – don’t.  You will almost certainly be caught, convicted, and likely imprisoned.” 

Total number of arrests rises to 483

149 charges have been brought, with that figure expected to continue to rise significantly as investigations progress.

Dozens of offenders have already been sentenced in court as cases have been fast-tracked through the criminal justice system, with many suspects remanded upon charge to face court hearings.

And work across all police forces continues at pace today, as:

• Dawn raids took place in numerous force areas this morning, increasing the number of people expected to face justice for taking part in the disorder.
• Thousands of public order officers were deployed across the country last night to protect communities from over 160 planned demonstrations. Around 36 gatherings took place with minimal disorder and only a handful of arrests.
• A further potential 20 gatherings and three counter-gatherings are planned for today.
• 5000 public order trained officers continue to be deployed to respond to any unrest. This contingent will stay in place over the coming days as forces continue to gather intelligence on potential demonstrations at a local and national level.
• An estimated 104 officers have been injured so far, with many hospitalised due to the extent of their injuries. Additional funding has been made available to Oscar Kilo, the national police wellbeing service, to support forces in giving those injured, physically and psychologically, the best chance of a swift recovery having been subject to such ferocious violence.

Chief Constable Gavin Stephens, National Police Chiefs’ Council Chair, said:

“Police action continues at full speed today as the number of arrests and charges in relation to the disorder reaches the hundreds.

“Officers and police staff are working flat out to progress investigations, acting on the mountain of intelligence and evidence gathered over the last week to secure convictions.

“Thousands of specially trained officers were deployed throughout England and Wales in response to planned demonstrations last night, and those officers will remain in place over the coming days. We are continually gathering and reviewing intelligence to ensure that officers are in the right place to protect communities.

“I would again like to thank the officers, staff and volunteers working around the clock to keep people safe, showing unwavering professionalism and bravery.

“We must not underestimate the physical and mental impact on officers facing the violent scenes from the past week. The criminal justice system is recognising the gravity of these offences to put those responsible behind bars.

“This is a worrying time for communities and hugely challenging for everyone involved. There has been incredible unity displayed across the country and this is how we tackle division, by standing together. Policing as a whole will continue to do its utmost to keep you safe.”

Police Federation England and Wales Acting National Chair Tiffany Lynch said:

“Our colleagues across the country have exhibited they are most professional in the world, and they will continue to uphold the law despite all the challenges. I sincerely hope that not a single officer in the country is now targeted, and the offenders continue to face full force of the law.”

Stephen Parkinson, Director of Public Prosecutions, said:

“By the hour, further charges are being authorised, significant sentences of imprisonment are being passed, and justice continues to be served after an extremely difficult period for the country.

“Our prosecutors are continuing to work swiftly and effectively in collaboration with the Police. I am immensely proud of the way that the criminal justice system has responded so quickly and well, ensuring that the rule of law prevails and that justice is done and seen to be done.”

Warning comes from National Police Chiefs’ Councils Chair

Chief Constable Gavin Stephens, NPCC Chair said:

“We have been taking a “hard line” on suspects of violent disorder over the past week. So far, more than 400 people have been arrested in connection with the unrest. Some are already facing years behind bars. This firm stance will continue, with police working alongside the criminal justice system to put measures in place which prove just how seriously we are taking this.

“We are arresting people, bringing them into custody, remanding and charging people as we speak. Once arrested, and even if you have no prior convictions, we promise you that you will be remanded into custody. You won’t be going home to see your family and friends.

“If you carry out this thuggish behaviour, then you need to know the personal consequences that come with it and that will directly affect you. If you are charged with violent disorder, you could be looking at a five-year prison sentence.

“I would also like to remind you that nobody is invisible in a crowd. Officers across the country are looking at intelligence, CCTV footage, body worn cameras and will continue to do so. If you are not arrested now, you will be in future.

“To young people, this is not activity you engage with in your spare time; this is criminal behaviour which could result in serious injuries and a criminal record that will stay with you for the rest of your life. A few hours of foolish behaviour will affect your future prospects, what jobs you can have and where you can travel.

“To parents and guardians, please speak with your young people, explain the consequences of these actions and the potential future ramifications. Make sure you know where they are.

“If you are planning to join this violence, we urge you to think again. Think about your future. You do not want to find yourself in the back of a police van and left in cells. Don’t let a misguided moment of madness ruin the rest of your life.”

Suspects will be remanded even with no previous convictions as deterrence  

Forces across the UK are taking a “hard line” on suspects of violent disorder and have arrested more than 400 people in connection with the unrest. 

Around 120 people have been charged and 428 arrests made, with that number expected to rise significantly day by day. 

Police have warned those involved that they face serious consequences, with jail time certain for many. Forces are working closely with the criminal justice system to ensure offenders are remanded and jailed for their actions.  

Some of the measures include remanding suspects who have no previous convictions as a deterrent and minimising or even avoiding releasing on pre-charge bail to ensure swifter justice.  

Chiefs have also asked that those convicted are named and shamed publicly. 

Additional prosecutors have been stood up and are ready to assist forces round the clock and work is ongoing with His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service to ensure additional space is available.   

Chief Constable BJ Harrington, the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for Public Order said:

“Our message has been plain and simple from the beginning of this unrest – if you are causing violence on our streets you will face the full force of the law.  

“If you are thinking about joining in, please think twice. You have a choice. This disorder does not have to happen.  

“Forces have now arrested 428 people with around 100 charged and more will be coming in the days ahead.  

“What we have witnessed this past week is plain criminality. It’s dividing and damaging our communities, injuring our officers and it needs to stop. 

“Forces continue to make arrests so be warned: if you have played a role, you can expect a knock at the door.  

“Violent disorder carries a maximum sentence of five years and this week a number of suspects with no previous convictions have already been remanded in prison after their first appearance at the magistrate’s court for violent disorder. 

“We have the full support of the Crown Prosecution Service and will be looking to minimise bail and maximise remand and custodial sentences to deter and prevent further rioting. 

“Once again, I’d like to issue a message to communities affected by this disorder. We are doing all we can to end the violence and bring those responsible to justice. Additional officers have been stood up to respond and remain in their communities for extra reassurance and support.  

“We stand with you – we deplore this senseless violence and urge anyone planning on attending a so-called protest with the intent of causing disorder to think again.”  

Kris Venkatasami, Chief Crown Prosecutor and the Crown Prosecution Service protest lead, said:

“The Crown Prosecution Service continues to work side by side with police to crack down on the violent disorder spreading through our streets. 

“Charges – including the first charge of intending to stir up racial hatred – are accelerating and we are already seeing swift justice as convictions continue to rise.  

“There is no doubt, what we have seen in the past week is sheer criminality.   

“We have always been clear: the law applies equally to anyone engaging in criminal activity, and to those who do, will be brought to justice.”