The Commissioner of Police in Kogi State, Bethrand C. Onuoha, has banned the use of fireworks, popularly called “Knockout” or “Banga,” across the state.
This decision was announced during a briefing at the Command Headquarters in Lokoja, where the CP expressed concern about the misuse of fireworks. He noted that some criminals use fireworks to commit crimes, taking advantage of the noise to cover their activities.
“The Command will not tolerate these acts of criminality. Anyone caught violating this ban will face arrest and prosecution,” CP Onuoha warned.
The CP called on parents and guardians to discourage their children and wards from playing with fireworks, urging compliance with the directive. He also issued a stern warning to shop owners who sell or supply fireworks in the state.
“Shop owners who sell or distribute fireworks will be arrested and prosecuted. We ask citizens to report any shops selling fireworks to the nearest law enforcement officers,” he said.
The Commissioner reassured residents that the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, are working tirelessly to ensure safety across Kogi State.
He urged citizens to cooperate by reporting suspicious activities or objects in their communities to security agents for immediate action.
“The safety of life and property is our top priority, and we need everyone’s support to achieve this,” CP Onuoha concluded.
