Lapu-Lapu to go after illegal pyro vendors

CEBU, Philippines — The Lapu-Lapu City Police Office (LCPO) will arrest those who will secretly sell firecrackers and pyrotechnics as well as those who sell the items with incomplete requirements.

LCPO director Senior Supt. Limuel Obon said they will apprehend them since what they are doing is against the city's rules.

He added that the headquarters has ordered to strictly enforce Republic Act (RA) 7183, or an Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, and Use of Firecrackers and other Pyrotechnic Devices.

"Of course, strict enforcement talaga. Ang top target nato kay zero casualties and zero indiscriminate firing," Obon said.

Earlier, Mayor Paz Radaza said that failure to have a complete set of requirements cannot sell pyrotechnics and firecrackers that are allowed by law.

For them to be a legitimate seller of pyrotechnics and firecrackers, they should first secure an endorsement from the barangay, from the LCPO as well from the City Fire District.

The city government is strict when it comes to dealing with this business as there are past incidents involving pyrotechnics and firecrackers that led to injuries, fire incidents, and deaths.

Obon added that he also reminded his personnel to be responsible in handling their service firearms especially that the muzzles of their guns will not be taped.

During parties, he said they should not carry the firearms unless they are on duty and wearing their uniform.

Obon said that once a policeman is involved in indiscriminate firing, they will face administrative complaints.

"They will be criminally charged if a person got killed due to such act (indiscriminate firing). He'll be put in hot water," Obon said.

While they are trained in gun handling, Obon advised the police to use their firearms only during police-related operation. — MBG (FREEMAN)