Security forces seize and destroy illegal firecrackers ahead of Tihar, urge public not to use them

Security personnel have seized and destroyed firecrackers illegally brought in through border points ahead of Tihar and Chhath.

According to Armed Police Force Battalion No. 2, Jhapa, the battalion destroyed firecrackers and fireworks worth about Rs 2.359 million by burying them in a pit within its premises on Friday.

According to battalion commander, Armed Police Senior Superintendent Sachin Karmacharya, the materials were seized at different times from various locations. He said curbing the illegal transport and sale of firecrackers is a priority for the battalion because of the risk of fire, accidents, loss of life and property, and pollution. He also urged district residents not to use firecrackers.

The Koshi Province Police Office in Biratnagar also said it has destroyed firecrackers worth more than Rs 1.07 million seized from various locations across the province. According to office spokesperson, Police Senior Superintendent Suman Kumar Timsina, police deployment at border points has been tightened and inspection teams, including those with sniffer dogs, have been deployed at various locations.

Nepal Police has urged the public not to burst firecrackers during Tihar, citing the risk of fire, accidents and environmental pollution. Police have also requested parents not to give firecrackers and flammable items to children and to keep a close watch on them. Central Police spokesperson Abi Narayan Kafle said police have been mobilized to maintain peace and security during the festival season.