The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for the West Midlands has paid tribute to the ‘remarkable family’ of Ronan Kanda following today’s introduction of Ronan’s Law that has seen an immediate ban of ninja swords in the UK.
Thanks to ‘courage and determination in campaigning for this law’ by Ronan’s family, it is now illegal to possess, manufacture, import or sell these deadly weapons.
From today (August 1), anyone caught in possession of a ninja sword in private could face six months in prison, and this will later increase to two years under new measures in the Crime and Policing Bill. There is already a penalty of up to four years in prison for carrying any weapon in public.
In a statement championing Ronan’s Law, PCC Simon Foster said: “I welcome the Home Office’s announcement, confirming the ban of ninja swords from August 1, under new legislation known as Ronan’s Law. This is an important and necessary step, towards preventing and tackling knife crime.
“The tragic and senseless killing of Ronan Kanda in Wolverhampton in 2022 devastated his family, friends and the local community. I pay tribute to Ronan’s family, for their remarkable courage and determination, in campaigning for this law. Their courageous action, has helped to bring about real change, that will make our communities safer.
“Tackling knife crime and reducing violence has always been one of my top priorities. This ban sends a clear message: dangerous weapons, like ninja swords, have no place on our streets. I have long supported measures, that remove these weapons from circulation and prevent further harm.
“Through my network of weapon surrender bins, across the West Midlands, we’ve already seen thousands of knives and dangerous weapons taken off our streets. These containers provide a safe, anonymous way for people to dispose of weapons and play a key role in preventing violence, before it happens.
“While this legislation is a vital step forward, we must continue to take a comprehensive approach – that includes robust disruption and enforcement – and investing in prevention, early intervention, diversion and addressing the underlying causes of violence.
“I am committed to preventing and tackling knife crime, to keep people safe and secure – and to save lives.”
To view the Commissioner’s network of weapon surrender bins in the West Midlands, click here.
To view the PCC’s priorities across the next four years, including his commitment to combat knife crime, view his Police & Crime Plan 2025-2029.
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