By Oluwatosin Maliki
The Enugu State Police Command has reaffirmed its stance on the use of firecrackers, noting that it has banned the sale and unauthorised use of fireworks across the state ahead of Christmas.
This was according to a statement posted by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, on Sunday via X (formerly Twitter).
The Enugu Commissioner of Police CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, stated that the ban remains “in full force” and cautioned firework dealers and users to “desist forthwith.”
“The dangers of setting off explosives like knockout bangers and firecrackers include enabling criminals, causing injuries, and fire outbreaks,” CP Uzuegbu stressed.
Furthermore, he highlighted the “tendency” of fireworks to enable crime, heighten tension, and pose “hazards to human life and property” during the dry harmattan winter.
Meanwhile, the CP warned that “violators would face the full weight of the law,” while advising parents to caution children from buying or igniting fireworks.
Also, CP Uzuegbu ordered Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Tactical Unit heads to “enforce the ban to the letter” and guarantee watertight security this Christmas season”.
“We will not tolerate any security breaches in their jurisdictions,” he asserted”.
In a season’s greeting, the CP wished Enugu citizens “a merry Christmas and fruitful new year,” but urged vigilance and reporting of criminal activities by calling emergency hotlines on 08032003702, 08075380883, 08086671202 or 08098880172, or sending emails to infoenugupolice@gmail.com.”
Additionally, the statement stressed on cooperation to enable “a safe, peaceful and enjoyable holiday for all Enugu residents.”