Two 'zombie knives' seized in Sunderland after men spotted acting suspiciously

Two illegal zombie knives and a quantity of drugs have been seized after police officers spotted two concerning characters in Sunderland 

The neighbourhood officers were out on patrol in the Pennywell area of Sunderland on Tuesday, November 14, when they were alerted to two males acting suspiciously.

Police stopped the pair, who had their faces covered, to speak with them and decided to search them.

This led to the discovery of two illegal zombie knives – with one of the males allegedly having it attached to a waistbelt.

Officers also seized a small quantity of Class B drugs believed to be cannabis.

The men – aged 20 and 24 – were arrested and later charged in connection with the investigation.

Both were released on police bail, and are due to appear before magistrates in South Tyneside later this month.

The seizure comes during Operation Sceptre, with Northumbria Police once again supporting the national week of action to tackle knife crime in the community.

The dedicated initiative builds on work already being carried out round the clock by officers, staff and volunteers to help reduce the harm and devastation knives and weapons can cause in our communities.

Speaking after the seizure, Superintendent Rob Bosson, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a fantastic result – with officers on duty taking a proactive approach when something did not seem quite right in the community.

“Thanks to them following their instincts, we were able to seize two illegal zombie knives from the pair who will appear before the courts at a later date.

“This is welcome news, as we continue to crackdown on knife crime and serious violence during Operation Sceptre and beyond.

“Please know that we will do all we can to take dangerous weapons like these off the streets – and bring any offenders involved to justice.”

Red surrender bins are in place at stations across the Force area, offering people the opportunity to hand over any unwanted blades or sharp objects and have them disposed of safely.

They can be found at the following police stations until Sunday, November 19 – Southwick, Millbank, Gateshead, Forth Banks, Bedlington, Middle Engine Lane and Hexham.

Members of the public can visit the Northumbria Police website for station opening times.

To share information about someone who is in possession of a prohibited weapon, or to report any suspicious activity, please get in touch using the ‘Tell Us Something’ page on the Northumbria Police website or call 101.

In an emergency, or where a crime is taking place, always dial 999.

Alternatively, you can speak to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.