KBS intercepts illegal fireworks

The Fire Department Suriname (KBS) recently stumbled across illegal fireworks during a routine inspection of containers. Reports indicate that several boxes that contained illegal fireworks were intercepted. Otmar HoA Sjoe, head of the Prevention Division at the KBS, pointed out that the boxes most likely contain Bin Laden firecrackers. He explained that the fire department always inspects the containers to check what type of fireworks have been imported. The fire department also tests the fireworks to determine if they exceed the decibel limit. One of the conditions for the import of fireworks is that the imported fireworks may not exceed 55 decibels. If a fireworks importer has violated the conditions of the permit, he or she will face prosecution.

HoASjoe could not indicate exactly how many carton boxes were intercepted. He did, however, indicate that the fireworks were very heavy and fat. According to HoASjoe, there are 11 fireworks importers this year. Each importer is given a list with the names of the types of fireworks that are banned. After the containers have been cleared by customs, the fire department escorts them to the storage facilities before conducting a routine inspection. The import of fireworks ends on December 31. If a container reaches the harbor after December 31, it is seized and the importer must ask the district commissioner for exemption. The fireworks may be sold at the end of that year. Several containers are expected to arrive during the weekend. Reports indicate that Crazy Bang (large and medium), Maripa, Crazy Robot (large) and Bin Ladin (large) have been banned.

HoASjoe pointed out that the Information Division of the KBS will launch its information campaign soon. Meanwhile the ParamariboNorthEast District Commissioner’s Office has already asked the Fire Department Suriname to inspect the stores of the retailers who want to sell fireworks. The KBS will commence with the inspections today.