Dalena Reporters l December 21, 2025
The Imo State Police Command has apprehended four men in separate intelligence-led raids within the Owerri metropolis for allegedly possessing and distributing banned fireworks, pyrotechnics and “knockouts” explosive devices prohibited under state directives designed to safeguard public safety during the yuletide period.
According to the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, the suspects identified as 29-year-old Victor Amadi, 31-year-old Moses Okoro, 28-year-old Ebuka Onye and 23-year-old Isaac Amadi were arrested after large quantities of pyrotechnic materials were recovered from multiple locations across Owerri.
Okoye said the successful operations were the result of “intelligence-led raids conducted at different locations within the Owerri metropolis,” emphasising that the unregulated possession, sale or distribution of fireworks, “knockouts”, bangers and all forms of explosive devices remains strictly prohibited throughout Imo State.
He reiterated the total ban announced by the Command in recent weeks aligned with broader directives by police across multiple states as the Christmas and New Year celebrations approach, a period when pyrotechnic-related injuries, fires and public disturbances traditionally climb if left unchecked.
“The Command reiterates the total ban on the use, sale, distribution, and possession of fireworks, knockouts, bangers, and all other forms of explosive devices across Imo State,” Okoye stated, warning that anyone found violating the directive will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Police further urged parents, traders and residents to desist from dealing in such items and to remain vigilant reporting any suspicious activities to the nearest station to assist security efforts aimed at ensuring a peaceful and safe festive season for all.
The crackdown reflects intensified enforcement of previously announced bans by the Imo State Police Command, which has stressed that strict compliance with pyrotechnics restrictions is essential to averting accidents, fires and unnecessary panic during celebrations later this month.
Published by Dalena Reporters.