Police seize over P60,000 worth of illegal firecrackers

CEBU, Philippines — Police authorities in the cities of Cebu and Lapu-Lapu have confiscated firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices being sold in unauthorized locations, citing violations of Republic Act 7183, which regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.

The Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) conducted an operation in Barangay Talamban yesterday, resulting in the confiscation of firecrackers worth P34,200. The seized items included: 1 Pagoda; 2 large Cinderella; 3 small Cinderella; 15 large fountains; 14 medium fountains; 20 small fountains; 15 extra-small fountains; 21 Jumbo Jacks; 140 Mercury firecrackers; 100 Roman Candles; 2 Araw; 13 boxes of Piccolo; 34 boxes of pop-pop; 402 sparklers; 3 Thunder; and 3 Beauty firecrackers.

Meanwhile, the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office (LLCPO) confiscated 768 firecrackers valued at P27,730 during a raid at the Lapu-Lapu City Public Market.

LLCPO spokesperson Police Lt. Christian Torres stated that the sellers violated sales regulations, including the sale of firecrackers without proper permits and in unauthorized locations.

The seized items were confiscated for violating Republic Act 7183, which mandates that firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices be sold only in designated areas authorized by the government and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Under the law, selling firecrackers in public places or residential areas without proper clearance from authorities is prohibited and subject to penalties. — (FREEMAN)