THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has issued a stern warning to persons who continue to sell firecrackers and other kinds of explosives to desist from same.“Persons who are caught selling or found in possession thereof will be prosecuted and face the consequences of the law to whatever level of their involvement as it relates to acquiring and the use of these explosives without a permit from the appropriate authority,” the Police Force said on Sunday.

In a statement to the media, the Force said that it recognises that in the celebration of Diwali, and the upcoming Christmas Season, there is usually an increase in the sale of firecrackers and other explosives.

“The Force is hereby issuing a stern warning to those who sell these explosives, which contribute a lot to serious bodily harm and injury to both users and innocent bystanders,” the statement said while noting that in the past both children and adults experienced grievous bodily harm during the use of these explosive.

“We urge all concerned to exercise the necessary care and caution when deciding to allow themselves to engage in the purchase of firecrackers,” the statement added.

Accordingly, Divisional Commanders have been reminded to maintain and sustain law enforcement efforts which are aimed at preventing the importation of these firecrackers, seizing in instances where evidence purports sales and conducting raids and searches, based on information, the statement added.