A MAN who imported a knife with a claw-shaped curving blade has appeared in court.

Michael Arcangelo Forte appeared at Poole Magistrates' Court last week to admit importing the prohibited weapon on October 17 last year.

The 62-year-old, of Manor Road in Bournemouth's East Cliff, had a karambit knife at his home.

The design of the utility knife, most commonly found in Indonesia, is based on a tiger's claw.

Forte was handed an 18-month conditional discharge.

He was also ordered to pay a £21 surcharge and £85 costs.

Magistrates ordered the forfeiture and destruction of the blade.