By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The Anambra State Police Command has banned the use of knockouts, fire crackers and other forms of fireworks during the Yuletide period.

Also banned is the use of nauthorized sirens, tinted glasses and covered plate numbers.

The state Commissioner of Police, Mr. John Abang, who gave the order in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Haruna Mohammed, on Tuesday, said that knockouts, fireworks and such like constitute a serious security risk noting that it is capable of misleading the security personnel on apparent danger of gunshots as well as engender fear in the minds of the peace loving citizens.

Abang assured Anambra people that this year’s Christmas and New Year celebrations, like the previous ones would be conducted peacefully.

He said the Command, in conjunction with other sister agencies, has put in place a robust crime prevention strategies such as visibility policing, foot and vehicular patrols.

Others include, joint stop and search operations, constant raids on criminal hideouts and traffic decongestions.

The statement reads in part: “The use of knock-outs, fire crackers and other forms of fireworks in the state constitute a serious security risk as it is capable of misleading the security personnel on apparent danger of gunshots as well as engender fear in the minds of the peace loving citizens

“Consequently, parents and guardians are advised to warn their children and wards from purchasing and using knockouts as the law governing the sales, purchase and use of Fireworks is still in Force.

“Groups or persons desiring to commit the above stated offences are warned to desist forthwith as anyone arrested would be dealt with in accordance with the law.”

The CP urged members of the public to report any suspicious persons or movements to the nearest Police Stations or through the following Police emergency number for prompt response: 07039194332.

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