By Michael Ofulue
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The Ondo State Police Command yesterday warned against the use of fireworks and other explosive devices, otherwise known as “bangers” in public places during the yuletide season, emphasising that anyone caught would be arrested and consequently prosecuted.

Against this backdrop,  parents have been advised to warn their children and wards against the indiscriminate shooting of bangers on the streets, residential areas and other public places before, during and after the Christmas and New year celebrations.

The State Command Public Relations Officer, Mr Femi Joseph, who gave the warning while speaking with The Hope Metro, said the law banning the use of explosives still subsists and that the police would deal ruthlessly with anybody caught in any act of threatening the existing  peace being enjoyed in the state.

He said it is against the law for someone to use explosive to disturb the public peace in the name of celebrating Christmas, saying, such illegal shooting is capable of creating tension and panic even when there is no need for such.

He stated that those selling and dealing in fireworks are culpable of committing the same offence, adding that police detectives are raiding criminal handouts to ensure that criminal elements and people with questionable characters do not hide under the activities of this festive period to carry out their nefarious activities.

His words, “We have told the general public about the danger inherent in using fireworks. And moreso, that the law prohibiting it still subsists, our men are moving around in all the nooks and crannies of the state to enforce the law banning the use of fireworks a.k.a ‘banger.’

“We have mapped out adequate security measures to ensure crime free celebrations of Christmas and New Year. We advise everybody to go about their lawful and legitimate duties unmolested.”

While assuring law abiding citizens of adequate protection of their lives and property , the police spokesman  urged them to be  more security conscious and report any strange movement of persons to the nearest police station for immediate action.

He noted that the job of effective crime prevention, detection and control is for all and sundry.