BULAWAYO – Police have warned members of the public against staging unauthorised fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve, cautioning that offenders risk arrest and prosecution.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said fireworks and firecrackers pose serious risks to people, property and animals, noting that past incidents have shown how dangerous their unsafe use can be.
“Anyone wishing to use fireworks must obtain permission from the appropriate authorities, such as the municipal council, town council or district administrator, depending on the location,” Nyathi said. “Failure to comply is an offence under the criminal code.”
Under Zimbabwean law, it is an offence to make a fire or detonate fireworks manufactured for amusement in a public place without the necessary authority, an offence punishable by arrest and prosecution.
Police said they will not hesitate to intervene where illegal fireworks activities are detected, particularly during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Nyathi cited documented cases in which children were seriously injured while playing with firecrackers, including incidents where minors lost eyesight or sustained severe injuries after explosives detonated unexpectedly.
In one notable case in Harare’s Greystone Park suburb, a stray firecracker reportedly landed on a thatched roof during New Year’s Eve celebrations, sparking a fire that destroyed much of a family home. Although no lives were lost, the blaze caused extensive property damage before firefighters managed to put it out.
Police have also warned that fireworks can cause panic and distress among animals, prompting pets to flee into roads where they risk injury or causing traffic accidents.
While authorities are not discouraging celebrations, Nyathi stressed that festivities must be conducted responsibly and within the confines of the law.
“The law is very clear. Anyone who wants to use fireworks must notify the police in advance and obtain the necessary clearance. They should also notify their neighbours well in advance,” he said in earlier public safety advisories.
Police said they will maintain heightened patrols and enforcement throughout the festive period to ensure compliance and safeguard public safety.
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