Accra, Nov. 9, GNA - The Ghana Police Service on Tuesday warned the public against the possession of firecrackers saying those who flouted the law would be arrested and prosecuted.

A statement signed in Accra by Dr K.K.Manfo, Commissioner of Police/Operations, said an Executive Instrument made in 1999 prohibits the manufacture, possession or carrying of firecrackers, often called knockouts, display shells, artillery shells and ball and canister shells.

Items exhibited are bottle rockets and missiles, floral shells, hand-held cylindrical fountains, ground spinners, hanging wheels, onward wheels, hand held fireworks, toys and assorted toy fireworks and single and multiple mines.

"Under the Instrument, persons who are in possession or in control of any of the prohibited explosives are to deposit them with the police officer in charge of the nearest Police Station."

The statement noted that despite the existence of the Executive Instrument, some people continued to smuggle, possess and openly display the prohibited items for sale in the markets and streets. It said flouting of the law reaches its peak during festive periods, especially Christmas and the celebration of parties and festivals.

During such periods, firecrackers are fired often discriminately, posing serious threat to life and property.

The Police said any person who failed to deposit such explosives with them committed an offence and was liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding five million cedis or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months or to both.