Sharjah Police arrest man with 18,000 illegal fireworks amid Ramadan warning
A man was arrested in Sharjah after being found with over 18,000 unlicensed fireworks in his vehicle. Police warn of jail terms and heavy fines for illegal fireworks use during Ramadan.
Man held with thousands of fireworks as Sharjah Police urge Ramadan caution
Sharjah Police arrested a man on Tuesday after finding more than 18,000 fireworks in his vehicle without a legal permit, thenationalnews.com reports. The suspect had been using the vehicle to advertise and sell the haul directly to the public.
Col Khalifa Al Balhai, Director of the Criminal Investigation and Investigation Department at Sharjah Police, said the irresponsible use of fireworks causes fear and anxiety among community members — particularly children and the elderly — due to sudden loud noises. "Such disturbances can undermine the sense of safety, particularly in residential areas," Col Balhai said.
The arrest came as the force issued a broader warning to residents against using fireworks irresponsibly during Ramadan. Police said they had received numerous complaints from community members in the emirate about people, mainly teenagers, setting off fireworks.
Brig Jassim Bin Al Suwaidi of Sharjah Police called on residents to exercise caution and take responsibility for their own safety and that of others. "Using fireworks can cause harm and is punishable by the law," Brig Al Suwaidi said. "There is a strict penalty on possessing or using fireworks without a licence."
Under UAE law, the misuse of weapons, ammunition or explosives carries a penalty of up to one year in prison, a fine of Dh100,000 ($27,230), or both. Brig Al Suwaidi noted that the possession, use, import or export of fireworks and firecrackers without official permits is expressly forbidden.
Sharjah resident Raghad Ali, who lives in Al Heera, said parents must supervise their children when playing with firecrackers, particularly after breaking the fast. "I hope there will be more police patrols in neighbourhoods to catch violators," Ms Raghad told The National. "We are in a crisis and it's not a good time to use firecrackers. Parents should monitor their teens and children."
Brig Al Suwaidi said police patrols are operating around the clock to respond to reports and monitor violations. Residents can report incidents by calling 999 or 901, or by contacting the Najid service on 800151.