QCPD confiscates P50k worth of illegal firecrackers

MANILA, Philippines — Around P50,000 worth of firecrackers have been confiscated so far by operatives of the 11 stations in Quezon City, Chief Superintendent Edgardo Tinio, head of the Quezon City Police District, said on Thursday afternoon.

Tinio said the illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnics included the destructive Piccolo, Pop-pop, Judas Belt, Watusi, Kwitis, Crying Cow, Whistle bomb, Bawang, Roman Candles, Butterfly Special Fountain.  They had a total street value of P50,730.

The vendors of the firecrackers were found to have violated Republic Act 7183, under which people caught manufacturing, selling and distributing, or purchasing illegal items face imprisonment of six months to a year, and fines of P20,000 to P30,000.

The firecrackers will be destroyed in the Rizal province by the QCPD, in coordination with the Firearms and Explosives division.

Since Dec 20, 16 firecracker injuries have been reported in the city, Tinio said.  Victims sustained minor injuries, mostly caused by Piccolo and were discharged after medication.

“We protect the people and legitimate businesssman who sell legal and safe firecrackers,” Tinio said.  SFM