NCRPO seizes P1.6M in illegal firecrackers

More than P1 million worth of illegal fireworks have been seized by Metro Manila policemen since they launched a crackdown against the banned items on Dec. 28.

Based on reports sent to National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) director Chief Supt. Leonardo Espina, as of Tuesday afternoon, the five police districts had confiscated P1.650 million worth of illegal pyrotechnic materials.

Of the total, the Quezon City police accounted for around P700,000. The Eastern Police District, on the other hand, seized around P350,000 worth of the banned items followed by the Manila Police District with P242,000, Northern Police District with P188,000 and Southern Police District with P170,000.

Espina also reported that 215 people were arrested during the crackdown for violating Republic Act No. 7183, which regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.

On the other hand, nine people were arrested for indiscriminate firing.

NCRPO spokesman Senior Supt. Dionardo Carlos said that although the New Year celebrations may be over, they would continue their operations until Jan. 7.

Espina, meanwhile, reminded firearm holders that the gun ban in connection with the coming elections would start on the 13th.

“Starting Jan. 13, no firearms [are allowed] outside residences … Licenses and permits to carry firearms outside residences are suspended until June 12,” he said in a radio interview.

He added that only uniformed law enforcers on duty and those with a clearance from the Commission on Elections would be allowed to carry guns.