People face jail for using firecrackers

Zim Now Writer

Using firecrackers without the permission of the police or local authority is an offence that attracts a Level 5 fine or a commensurate jail term, police have warned.

The law requires that anyone who wishes to light up fireworks seeks permission to do so from the police or local authority, failure of which they will face charges of creating a public nuisance under Section 46 of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act.

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said anyone found on the wrong side of the law risks being arrested and prosecuted.

“The law is very clear. Anyone who wants to use fireworks must notify the police in advance and get the necessary clearance. They should also notify their neighbours well in advance. These are dangerous and may lead to serious harm. In recent years, we have dealt with cases in which minors have been seriously injured; and we are trying to avoid this,” he said.

Besides the danger to people and property, firecrackers cause confusion, anxiety and fear in the lives of animals, causing many to run away from their homes into the streets, which is dangerous to members of the public as they can get injured due to bites and accidents.

In December 2012, a 13-year-old boy died in Masvingo in a suspected firecracker accident while several other people across the country have been injured in similar mishaps