In late June 2022, my son Ronan was attacked while walking home on a sunny evening. Two teenagers, aged sixteen, approached him from behind and viciously stabbed him twice with a 22-inch ninja sword, causing fatal injuries.
The assailant had purchased the lethal weapon online using a false ID and picked it up from the post office on the day of the attack. This shocking incident prompted me to question how retailers could sell such dangerous items without facing consequences for promoting harm and violence.
I was deeply troubled by the lack of proper ID checks carried out by sellers of dangerous weapons. Seeking answers and change, I met with Sir Keir Starmer, the Leader of the Opposition at the time, in a café near Euston. Despite my skepticism towards politicians, I found in him a compassionate listener who understood a grieving mother’s plea for justice.
Sir Keir Starmer promised to ban ninja swords if his party came into power, a commitment that has been fulfilled by the current Prime Minister. The Labour Government has prioritized combatting knife crime, aiming to swiftly address this alarming issue.
Through collaborative efforts with government officials, Ronan’s Law was introduced to not only prohibit the sale of ninja swords but also impose penalties on retailers selling knives to minors. Additionally, the law mandates stringent ID verification processes to ensure responsible retail practices.
The government’s proactive approach has effectively closed loopholes and cracked down on the illicit online weapons trade. The launch of an amnesty scheme preceding Ronan’s Law has seen remarkable success in encouraging individuals to surrender weapons voluntarily.
Working in partnership with various stakeholders, including FazAmnesty, the government has facilitated the surrender of over 7,000 weapons through designated amnesty bins and vans strategically placed in high-risk regions like London, Greater Manchester, and the West Midlands.
A special amnesty bin in memory of Ronan has been established in Wolverhampton, serving as a poignant tribute to his legacy. The government’s task force dedicated to reducing knife-related crimes has yielded tangible results, contributing to a significant decrease in robberies nationwide.
The West Midlands, in particular, has witnessed a substantial drop of nearly 30% in recorded robberies, translating to 771 fewer incidents. These outcomes underscore the efficacy of collective action between communities and the government in addressing pressing societal challenges.
Furthermore, the Government’s Young Futures initiative underscores a proactive stance on prevention by identifying and supporting vulnerable youth to prevent escalation into criminal activities. By investing in early intervention and community resilience, the government aims to provide young people with alternative pathways away from violence.
As a mother who tragically lost her son to knife crime, I commend the government’s unwavering commitment to justice and safety. The implementation of Ronan’s Law stands as a testament to the positive impact that policy changes can have in safeguarding communities and honoring the memory of loved ones lost to violence.
I wholeheartedly support the government’s goal of halving knife crime within the next decade and urge continued collaboration with advocates, families, and communities to sustain progress and drive further positive change. The establishment of robust legislation in my son’s name is a profound gesture for which I am profoundly grateful.
