PNP cracks whip vs banned firecracker sellers

Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) operatives arrested three individuals involved in the online sale of banned firecrackers in a series of operations conducted in Metro Manila and Olongapo City.

In a statement Thursday, ACG public information officer Lt. Wallen Arancillo said the three suspects were apprehended in separate operations on 6, 11 and 16 December 2024.

Authorities said that a total of 541 pieces of illegal firecrackers, valued at P14,370, were seized.

The ACG’s crackdown on online firecracker sales comes as the PNP Civil Security Group intensifies its efforts to curb the sale of illegal fireworks during the holiday season.

Meanwhile, the PNP-ACG has partnered with social media platform TikTok to combat cybercrime. The two organizations met on Wednesday to discuss strategies for addressing cybercrime issues, particularly scams and online exploitation.

The partnership aims to streamline investigations and enhance the capabilities of ACG personnel in dealing with cybercrimes on the platform. TikTok representatives also raised concerns about scams on its shopping feature.