Thousands of fireworks seized in Dubai after Ramadan raids

Police warn parents of dangers fireworks pose to their youths

DUBAI // Parents have been urged to keep their children away from fireworks over the Eid holidays, after almost 2,500 boxes were seized in Ramadan.

Officers said some children continued to get their hands on rockets and other explosives, despite a ban across the UAE.

Those selling them were fined up to Dh5,000 and some were referred to prosecutors, although police did not give figures.

“We’ve seen children between the age of 8 and 11 playing with fireworks, unaware of the consequences,” said Brig Abdullah Al Ghaithi, director of protective security at Dubai Police.

“In several instances, children have been injured while playing with fireworks but parents fear to report the incident to police because they are aware of the punishment.”

More than 430 patrols were done this month, with police searching markets, shops and storage units for stashes.

“Officers seized 2,469 boxes of fireworks in inspections from May 28 until June 14,” Brig Al Ghaithi said. “Fires have been started due to residents setting off fireworks unprofessionally.” He said some fireworks had been launched from balconies.

Selling fireworks carries a sentence of up to three months in prison and a Dh5,000 fine.

Police tried to raise awareness about the dangers of fireworks, posting fliers and giving talks at youth clubs.

“More than 20,000 boxes of illegal fireworks were seized in the past four years,” said Brig Al Ghaithi said. “A person must have a licence to import fireworks and he cannot sell them or store them without permission from the relevant authorities.” In Abu Dhabi, Col Hamid Al Afreet, director of firearms and explosives at Abu Dhabi Police, said parents should educate their children about the dangers, and “report shops selling them illegally”.

“Setting off or using fireworks unprofessionally can lead to catastrophic injuries and permanent disability,” Col Al Afreet said. “Children and teenagers playing with fireworks during the Eid holidays seem unaware of the consequences.

“It could cause a fire and several incidents have resulted in deaths in the past.” He urged people to report shops selling fireworks by calling 999.

Selling fireworks carries a sentence of up to three months in prison and a Dh5,000 fine