As the festive season draw closer, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has issued a strong warning to residents against the sale, purchase, and use of firecrackers, knockouts, explosives, and other unauthorized pyrotechnics.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Miller Dantawaye, issued the caution in a statement released on Monday, stressed that the Command has observed an alarming increase in the circulation of fireworks across Abuja.
According to the statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the indiscriminate use of firecrackers posed serious safety and security risks, including injuries, fire outbreaks, and widespread panic. She added that criminals often take advantage of the noise from explosives to mask their activities.
“Firecrackers disrupt public peace and endanger vulnerable members of the community, particularly children, the elderly, and persons with underlying health conditions,” the statement read.
The Command emphasised that officers have been directed to strictly enforce the ban. Violators, it said, will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Residents were also urged to remain vigilant and report anyone involved in selling or using fireworks. Reports can be made at the nearest police station or through the FCT Command’s emergency numbers: 08032003913 and 08068587311.
The FCT Police reassured the public of its commitment to ensuring a peaceful and secure environment throughout the Ember-month festivities and beyond.
