Zombie knives, also sometimes known as “zombie killer knives” or “zombie slayer knives” are ornate weapons ostensibly sold for recreational purposes.

They are defined as blades with a cutting edge, a serrated edge, and “images or words (whether on the blade or handle) that suggest that it is to be used for the purpose of violence”.

The ban on their possession and sale in England and Wales came into effect late last week.

The UK Border Force blocks their importation into the UK.

The timetable on banning the items in Northern Ireland is not yet clear.

A spokesperson for Northern Ireland’s Department of Justice told Irish Legal News: “Following discussions between the UK Government and Northern Ireland Executive, Minister of Justice Claire Sugden has confirmed that her officials will take forward the necessary action aimed at creating legislation to ban ‘Zombie Knives’ in Northern Ireland.”