A new weapon surrender bin has been installed in Thamesmead, making it the fourth permanent bin in Royal Greenwich aimed at reducing knife crime and making communities safer.
The latest bin is located on Hutchins Road, SE28 8AT, and forms part of the Home Office’s national weapons surrender scheme, which runs throughout July. Designed to accommodate larger items such as so-called ninja swords, the bin provides a safe and anonymous way for people to dispose of dangerous weapons.
From 1 August 2025, ninja swords will be illegal to possess. Anyone found with one could face up to four years in prison. The surrender bin offers an opportunity for individuals to hand in such items before the new law takes effect, without fear of prosecution.
The bins are securely installed, with a letterbox-style design that prevents access to the contents once deposited. No personal information is collected from those using the service.
In addition to the permanent bins, a mobile surrender van, operated by the organisation FazAmnesty, will be visiting Herbert Road, SE18 3TX, on Wednesday 16 July, between 2 pm and 5 pm. Trained staff will be on hand to accept weapons, again with no questions asked.
Since the first surrender bins were installed in Abbey Wood, Eltham, and Woolwich, over 200 weapons have been safely taken off the streets of Royal Greenwich.
Residents can find out more about the surrender scheme and the borough’s broader efforts to tackle knife crime by visiting the Royal Greenwich website and exploring the ‘Let’s Live #KnifeFree’ campaign.
If you have information about knife crime, you can report it anonymously via Crimestoppers or Fearless, or by calling 0800 555 111. Always dial 999 in an emergency.
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