James Kon
The Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) seized a massive haul of fireworks and detained a local man for allegedly possessing the prohibited items yesterday.
The 40-year-old uniformed personnel was found in possession of 11 packages and boxes of fireworks during a patrol in Kampong Belais, Temburong District.
During an inspection on the suspect’s vehicle, police found suspicious boxes on the rear seats and inside the boot.
The suspect was brought to the Bangar Police Station along with his vehicle and the contraband.
The fireworks included 160 sets of Happy Boom Glow of Sunset, 100 sets of Colour Flower V026, 60 sets of Mini Cicciolo, 24 sets of Assorted Celebration Cakes Repeater, 18 packets of Happy Boom Pili Cracker and 72 sets of Happy Boom Flower Silver Cracking Rain.
The case is being investigated under Chapter 58 of the Arms and Explosives Act.
The RBPF reminded the public that the ban of fireworks and firecrackers is in the public’s interest due to the danger they pose, such as physical injuries, damages to properties and fire.
As per Regulation 15, Chapter 58 of the Arms and Explosives Act, the public is not allowed to import, make, sell or own any firecrackers or fireworks containing explosives.
Anyone found violating the act can be charged and imprisoned between five and 15 years
as well as three to 12 strokes of the cane. Meanwhile, under Rule 17 (2) of the Arms and Explosives Act, anyone found guilty of committing an offence under Rule 15 of the Arms and Explosives Act stands to face a fine of BND3,000.
According to Section 6, Chapter 30 of the Minor Offences Act, anyone guilty of starting a fire or burning flammable materials that may cause disturbances, inconveniences or dangers to the public, or releases balloons or skyrockets on a public road, will be fined BND250.
