Anyone Caught Selling or Purchasing Fireworks Will Face The Law – Police

On Saturday, police in Gombe State issued a warning to locals not to purchase or use fireworks during the Christmas and New Year’s holiday celebrations.

In Gombe on Saturday, ASP Mahid Abubakar, a police spokesman, said that Mr. Oqua Etim, the state’s commissioner of police, had issued the warning and that the police had taken steps to ensure compliance.

According to Abubakar, the commissioner stated that the state’s ban on the sale, acquisition, and use of fireworks (commonly known as “Knockouts” or “Bangers”) and other explosives was still in effect.

“Anyone caught selling or lighting up fireworks and explosives of any kind in the state will face the full wrath of the law.’’ He warned.

In order to provide proper security prior to, during, and after the festivities, he added that Etim had ordered the deployment of police officers around the state to ensure that crime hotspots and locations of public interest were well patrolled.

“We are collaborating with other security agencies and stakeholders to put in place sufficient crime preventive measures before, during and after the Christmas and New Year festivities,’’ he stated.

The commissioner of police charged operatives to discharge their duties in accordance with extant laws and rules of engagement especially as it concerns professionalism and shunning of corruption and extortion.

Etim also cautioned officers to respect the rights of citizens while calling community leaders, parents and guardians to report any suspected criminal act in their communities.

“Residents should remain supportive by being vigilant, law-abiding and promptly report criminals and their activities.

“I also urge motorists to abide by traffic regulations and avoid over speeding or reckless driving which may endanger their lives and those of other commuters.

“We wish all the people of Gombe State a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year in advance,’’ Abubakar quoted Etim as saying.