Warning ‘shots’ for buyers/ sellers of firecrackers and explosives

The items which sends animals and humans alike scrambling for cover once caught unexpected

The Guyana Police Force on Friday evening issued a ‘stern’ warning to those sell explosives and firecrackers which are used to culminate the Diwali and Christmas observances. However this warning comes even as the items are being sold and purchased openly especially in the Stabroek Market area where dozens of police ranks traverse in uniforms and even on patrols.

A display of fire crackers, sparkles and squibs on a stand at Water Street

The Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is also usually very concern as well as animal owners as the firecrackers and explosives would usually cause the animals to jump and become scared when these items go off. There are instances where persons even adults, which throw these explosives in the directions of animals.

Outside of that, these explosives would at times sound as gunshots and would leave residents confused and uncertain as to if they are hearing gunshots or the sounds of firecrackers.

In it’s statement, the police force noted that in the celebration of Diwali and thereafter leading into the Christmas season, there is usually an increase in the sale of the firecrackers and similar kinds of explosives.

“Persons who are caught selling or found in possession thereof will be prosecuted and face the consequences of the law to whatever level of their involvement as it relates to acquiring and the use of these explosives without a permit from the appropriate authority” The police press statement noted.

The scene yesterday in close proximity to police outpost at Stabroek and at an area which is traversed by numerous uniform and patrol ranks

The police force reminded that these explosives do contribute to serious bodily harm and injury to both users and bystanders.

“The Force is hereby issuing a stern warning to those who sell these explosives” it stated as reference was made to instances where children and adults experienced bodily harm in the past.

The respective police commanders have been reminded to maintain and sustain law enforcement efforts which are aimed at preventing the importation of these firecrackers, seizing in instances where evidence purports sales and conduct raids and searches based on information.

If the police force is seriously looking to address the sale and use of these firecrackers and explosives, then it is only natural that a concentrated effort and campaign should be seen in and around the Stabroek Market area where these items are being sold and purchased openly.