Dubai: More than 4,650 firecrackers were seized by Dubai Police in the first half of 2015.
Colonel Abdullah Ali Al Gaithi, Director of Protective Security and Emergency Department at Dubai Police, said that there were 23 cases, in which 4,658 firecrackers were seized.
The 23 cases included shops selling fireworks and people selling them online.
The department had recently concluded an awareness campaign about the dangers of fireworks.
He said that the campaign reached 130,600 people through social media, and the 23 events were held at different malls, cultural and sporting clubs, Ramadan tents, and public hospitals and clinics.
“The Dubai Police campaign was a great success, so it was decided that there will be an awareness campaign on the dangers of fireworks in all of the emirates next year,” he said.
Brig Al Gaithi warned that anyone found selling or storing fireworks will be fined and could face jail.
“They are ignoring the dangers of their actions. The law states that if a person is caught selling fireworks without a licence he will serve a jail sentence of no less than six months and/or have to pay Dh10,000.
“Also, even if a person has a licence to import fireworks he cannot sell them or store them without permission from the police or other relevant authorities.
“In this case, a person will serve no less than three months in jail and/or pay a Dh5,000 fine.”
Brig Al Gaithi urged the public to call 800 8888 if they suspect anyone of selling illegal fireworks.
Fireworks start off as fun, but usually end in disaster. Police have warned over and over about the dangers of fireworks and how they could leave people playing with them, especially children, with severe burns or other injuries.
Dealing in fireworks is a serious offence punishable by law, If a person is caught selling fireworks he could face a jail sentence of not less than six months and/or up to Dh10,000 in fines.
