Police want parents help combat illegal fireworks

Angry citizens in different districts across Cyprus have been calling police to complain over the use of illegal fireworks, with law enforcement saying the issue was complicated and society also had a role to play in curbing the unlawful activity.

Larnaca police stopped a local teen who was carrying four cases of illegal bangers on Sunday evening, with reports saying the young male was walking with a total of 160 factory-made firecrackers just before 8pm.

The father of the boy was called to report at the scene while officers detained the boy, who was transported to a local station for further questioning.

Police have been criticized for failing to take action against illegal firework bangers waking up and shaking entire neighborhoods, with more incidents being reported around the Easter holidays as well as summer graduation.

But a law enforcement official told state radio on Monday morning that policing entire events where illegal fireworks could be used only in a matter of a few minutes was not an effective response.

Police have asked citizens to report incidents of illegal fireworks but have also called on society at large, especially parents groups, to play a bigger role in the effort to stop teens from discharging fireworks in quiet neighborhoods.

“But when you have parents taking part in this illegal activity during graduation, then what can we as a society expect from children?” the official asked.

The use of firecrackers and bangers is illegal in the Republic of Cyprus, with offenses falling under state explosives laws while one-time permits can be obtained for specific types during special events.