The police in Imo State say the ban on use of fireworks in the state is still in force and will be enforced with vigour this forthcoming yuletide festivities.
In a statement signed by the spokesman of the police in the state, CSP Michael Abattam, the command warned against the use of any form of fireworks this season.
Abattam said the insistence on the non-deployment of knockouts and bangers this yuletide arose from its finding that hoodlums use them to distract preys before launching attacks on targets.
While urging parents and guardians to prevail on their children and wards against firing of bangers, Abattam charged wholesalers and retailers of fireworks to stop distribution and sale of the banned products in their interest.
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He said anyone found distributing or selling fireworks would be arrested and prosecuted.
The statement reads in part; “It is common knowledge that hoodlums use such fireworks and explosives to cause distraction, panic and consequently pandemonium and in the process rob/ kidnap unsuspecting victims.
“Also such fireworks and explosives could be life threatening as it may cause heart attacks in aged persons and fire outbreaks.
“To forestall crime and criminality in the State parents/guardians are advised to educate and guide their children and wards against the use of fireworks and other explosives.
“Wholesalers/retailers of such items are equally warned to stop distribution/sale of fireworks in the state as anyone found complicit will be arrested, the fireworks or explosives confiscated and such person(s) prosecuted forthwith.”
Abattam disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Hussaini has directed police chiefs in the state to ensure strict enforcement of the ban on use of fireworks in their jurisdictions.
He said; “The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Rabiu Hussaini psc, has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers ( DPOs) to ensure strict enforcement of the ban in their areas and assured Imolites of the command’s commitment in ensuring a crime free Christmas and new year celebrations in the state.”
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