PNP nabs two for illegal firecracker online sales, warns public

The Philippine National Police (PNP) urges the public to remain vigilant and avoid engaging with illegal online sellers of firecrackers, following an entrapment operation in Tondo, Manila, which resulted in the arrest of two individuals.

According to the PNP, operatives from the Manila District Anti-Cybercrime Team conducted the operation on 26 November at 5:18 P.M. The two male suspects were caught in the act of selling unauthorized firecrackers through online platforms.

All confiscated items that are all prohibited under existing regulations were secured as evidence. The suspects face charges violating Section 3 of Republic Act No. 7183, which regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.

Following the use of online platforms to sell the said illegal firecrackers, they are also facing violations linked to Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

Acting Chief PNP PLTGEN Nartatez emphasized the risk behind illegal online purchases, urging the public to prioritize safety as the holiday season approaches.

“These unregulated products can cause serious injuries and even put whole communities at risk. Our police units are actively monitoring online spaces to ensure that these dangerous trades are stopped,” Nartatez said.

Nartatez also noted that PNP continuously intensify their watch on illegal firecracker cases both in the field and digital space to prevent related incidents. 

“As the holidays draw near, we are intensifying both cyber and community-based operations to prevent firecracker-related incidents. We urge the public to cooperate and report suspicious online activities immediately."

PNP Spokesperson and Chief, Public Information Office PBGEN Randulf  Tuaño urged the public to only buy from authorized retailers and refrain from cheap but risky and illegal firecrackers being sold online.

"There are many online offers emerging that look cheap and convenient, but are dangerous and illegal. Let's not compromise our safety. The law is clear—only authorized sellers can distribute pyrotechnics. Anyone caught selling or buying illegal firecrackers online will face legal consequences," PBGEN Tuaño said.

​"This operation in Tondo is a reminder that our cybercrime teams are alert and proactive. The most important thing: let's avoid accidents and fires. Buy only from legitimate sources or, better yet, consider safer alternatives for celebration,” he added.

The PNP encourages the public to report illegal online sellers of firecrackers through the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group hotline, local police stations, or the Unified 911 hotline.