A 60-YEAR old man was arrested by members of the Durban Explosives Unit for dealing in fireworks using an alleged fake licence on Thursday, 29 December.
According to Colonel Thembeka Mbhele, spokesman for the KZN SAPS, the members were doing their routine duties in the Pinetown Central Business District when they spotted a shop in Stanfield Lane selling fireworks.
“Members approached the shop and started their investigation. Upon checking the licence they discovered that it was a fake licence and the owner was immediately placed under arrest. Fireworks with a street value of up to R350, 000 were seized from the shop. The arrested suspect is expected to make his first appearance in court soon,” said Col Mbhele.
KwaZulu-Natal acting provincial commissioner, Major General Bheki Langa, appealed to shop owners who sell fireworks to comply with the Explosive Act.
“Those who will be found contravening such an Act will face the long arm of the law. Parents must also make sure that they supervise their children when using fireworks during New Year’s Eve,” added Maj Gen Langa.