Weapons including ninja swords were anonymously handed over by residents in Rochdale and Heywood last week as part of a nationwide effort to tackle knife crime.
The FazAmnesty surrender van visited Greater Manchester towns including Rochdale and Heywood during the launch of the Home Office-supported initiative led by anti-knife crime campaigner Faron Paul. The specially adapted van, the first of its kind in the UK, allows residents to safely dispose of bladed weapons without giving personal information or having to visit a police station.
Greater Manchester Police is supporting the initiative, which coincides with a month-long surrender of ninja swords ahead of a national ban beginning on 1 August 2025. Anyone still owning such weapons after this date could face prison.
Detective Chief Inspector Richard Thompson, who heads GMP's knife crime team, Operation Venture, praised the initiative as a "fantastic resource" that enables discreet weapon disposal but noted its necessity reflects the ongoing knife culture across Greater Manchester's streets.
Faron Paul, CEO of FazAmnesty, expressed his gratitude to local residents, GMP, and councils for their support, stating: “We look forward to continuing this important work as the FazAmnesty van tours the country.”
For those who missed the surrender van's visit, ninja swords can still be handed in at several police stations, including Rochdale Police Station on The Esplanade. Meanwhile, secure surrender bins outside Middleton Police Station on Oldham Road and Heywood Police Station on Queens Park Road are available for anonymous knife disposals.
Residents who bought ninja swords before 27 March 2025 could be entitled to compensation if they surrender them at designated police stations.
Reform UK launches Greater Manchester mayoral manifesto with tax, policing and transport pledges
Car flips onto roof after alleged dangerous driving in Littleborough as police make arrest
Woman dies after driving wrong way on M62 police believe
Dovestone moor fire sends smoke across Saddleworth as firefighters battle blaze
Heywood HMO protest moved from Memorial Gardens to Civic Centre after backlash
Hundreds celebrate community and culture at third annual Dumpling Day in Rochdale
Rochdale Mayfield secures more than £10,000 to improve community facilities
Rochdale’s Ian Murgatroyd selected to represent England Masters Rugby League
Paul Waugh says climate emergency demands urgent action to protect Rochdale
Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary chosen as The Rock charity partner for second year
Greens unveil Greater Manchester manifesto with affordable homes and free bus travel pledge
New fire station plans for Heywood move forward

Comments
Add a comment