A Norwich man accused of possessing a samurai sword has claimed the weapon was just home ornament.

Bevin Bascombe, 33, who goes by the alias Ninja, has denied possession of an offensive weapon after the sword was found by police at a property in Chedgrave in May 2022.  

Appearing before Norwich Magistrates’ Court via video link from HMP Norwich, where he is currently on remand in relation to a separate offence, he was told he will face a trial on March 8.

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Deputy District Judge Sundeep Pankhania said it was not denied that he had been in possession of the sword but “whether it is an ornament or not is what is likely to be in dispute”.

The court was told his defence team was currently seeking advice from an expert over the legal status of the weapon.  

Samurai swords are illegal to own unless the item is regarded as decorative, antique or an ornament object.