An Ipswich activist has welcomed the government's move to ban zombie-style knives later this year.
Paul Stansby, the co-founder of the Lucky 13 Tattoo Studio in Ipswich, has been campaigning against the use of knives since his brother, Dean, was stabbed to death in the town in February 2017.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said the new prohibition on zombie knives, which are typically serrated and inspired by zombie films, would “take them off our streets”.
The ban is due to come into force in September, making it illegal to possess, sell, manufacture or transport the blades.
Mr Stansby is happy to see the new laws being introduced – but expressed his fears it could mean criminals turn to firearms instead.
He said: “It’s about time that this law is in place.
"Obviously zombie knives were a bit of a fashion statement because of the size and the shape of them. It’s really good they’re doing something about it.
“The problem is even through the enforcement of laws on knives is getting stricter but the they have to up the restrictions on gun crime too because if the sentences start to match for knives and guns then criminals will choose guns next.
"The laws for both have to be changed aggressively at the same time."
Tim Passmore, Suffolk's police and crime commissioner, added: “I welcome these changes to ban the sale and possession of zombie-style knives.
"Anything that helps reduce the number of weapons on our streets has got to be a good thing.
"I really hope this will make it almost impossible for people to get a hold of these dangerous weapons and will allow the police to prosecute those who supply or sell them."
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