Harry Potter Sword Replicas Break Japan’s Weapons Laws

Dec 5 2024

In Japan, replicas of Godric Gryffindor’s sword from the Harry Potter film series have been recalled for violating the country’s strict weapons law.

The full-sized replicas, measuring 86 cm (34 inches) and sold by Warner Bros. Studio Japan LLC for 30,000 yen ($200), were available from May 2023 to April 2024.

However, authorities determined in November that the replicas were sharp enough to be classified as actual swords under Japan’s Firearms and Swords Control Law, which mandates registration of such items unless they are non-sharpenable decorative or training tools.

More than 350 replicas were sold through the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo, the largest indoor Harry Potter attraction in the world, which opened in 2023.

The studio issued a recall notice, offering logistics and refunds to buyers. Violating Japan’s weapons law, which bans carrying knives over 6 cm, can result in up to two years of imprisonment.

Japan’s strict weapon regulations contribute to its low violence levels, though occasional incidents occur. For example, a 78-year-old man was arrested in 2022 for attacking his neighbour with a ceremonial samurai sword, and a 2017 Tokyo shrine attack involved a samurai sword and knives, leaving three dead.

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Fake Tickets Being Sold For St John’s Co-Cathedral

Dec 5 2024

Taking to social media, the official page of St John’s Co-Cathedral warned of a fake ticket sale scam targeting visitors to the cathedral.

‘Fraudulent profiles and domains are being created to impersonate the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation, with the intention of selling fake tickets. Please note that all tickets must be purchased directly through our official website and authorised channels.’

The statement urged visitors not to purchase visitor entry tickets, concert tickets or performance tickets from third party sources.

‘We will never ask for personal details, passwords, or PINs’, the statement highlighted.

‘Do not click on any links provided. Do not share personal or banking information. Report the suspicious message immediately via our official contact number 2122 0536 or email us at [email protected].’

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More Top Spots In 2024 Spotify Wrapped Globally

Dec 5 2024

It’s not just about music! Here’s who and what else shined during this year’s Spotify Wrapped!

Taylor Swift once again dominated, with her album ‘THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT: THE ANTHOLOGY’, taking first place in the Top 10 Albums Globally.

Meanwhile, The Joe Rogan Experience also retained its top spot in the Top 10 Podcasts Globally, followed by ‘Call Her Daddy’ and ‘Huberman Lab’.

When it comes to audiobooks, Sarah J. Maas dominated with not just ‘A Court of Thorns and Roses’ in the top spot, but also took fourth and 7th with ‘A Court of Mist and Fury’ and ‘A Court of Wings and Ruin’ respectively.

Turning back to music, Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga’s collaboration ‘Die With A Smile’ was the most viral song globally, followed by Billie Eilish’s ‘BIRDS OF A FEATHER’ and Benson Boone’s ‘Beautiful Things’.

Were any of these in your top list?

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24 New Architects Receive Their Warrant

Dec 4 2024

“Architects play a crucial role in shaping the quality of life through their work and creativity.”

This was the core message shared by Parliamentary Secretary for Public Works Omar Farrugia during a ceremony granting warrants to 24 newly qualified architects, officially marking the start of their professional journeys.

Speaking at the Museum of Archaeology, Farrugia highlighted the significance of the architectural profession, describing it as one that not only designs spaces but also helps shape the country’s future.

He encouraged the new architects to approach their work with ambition, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.

Dr. Frank Psaila, Chairperson of the Architects’ Warrant Board, addressed the responsibility inherent in the profession.

He emphasized that obtaining the warrant represents a significant achievement, reflecting the importance of safety and quality in architectural design.

He urged the architects to focus on creating structures that are not only functional and secure but also enhance the lives of the people they serve.

The tradition of issuing warrants to architects dates back to the 1919 Architects Ordinance, which was followed by the establishment of the Chamber of Architects in 1920.

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