Mayor, cops issue warning after fireworks bust in Krugersdorp North
Owner fined and fireworks worth R90 000 confiscated as shop in Krugersdorp North was found to be in contravention of the Explosives act.
The illegal use and sales of fireworks were in the spotlight again during the festive season.
Multiple Mogale City departments and affiliates set out to rid the town of as many illegal fireworks as possible. Subsequently, on Tuesday, December 28, the West Rand District Municipality (WRDM) Fire and Rescue, WRDM Fire Risk Management, WRDM Disaster Management, WRDM Community Safety, Mogale City Public Safety, police, Krugersdorp CPF, AfriForum, community patrollers, various security companies along with the recently elected Mogale City Local Municipality (MCLM) Executive Mayor Tyrone Gray conducted an operation throughout the Krugersdorp Central Business District, Krugersdorp North and Krugersdorp West areas.
Numerous shops were visited and one in Krugersdorp North was found in contravention of the Explosives Act. The owner was issued a fine of R2 500 and all the fireworks worth R90 000 were confiscated,” said Krugersdorp Police spokesperson Captain Raymond Sebonyane.
Mayor Gray noted, “I begin by applauding and appreciating the Mogale Response Services as well as the police and community organisations such as the CPF and AfriForum for the fireworks compliance operation. I would further like to clarify some confusion relating to fireworks.
It is illegal to sell and set off fireworks without the necessary permission! The WRDM, which includes Mogale City, Merafong City and Rand West City regulates fireworks under section 38. Businesses wanting to sell fireworks must apply for a licence at the police’s Explosives Unit.
“The application also goes to the City’s Emergency Services and WRDM. Residents wanting to set off fireworks must apply to the chief fire officer. Businesses selling fireworks without a certificate will be issued a fine of up to R20 000 and/ or 12 months imprisonment in terms of the Explosives Act 26 of 1956.”
The mayor also referenced the Gauteng Provincial Gazette vol 14 no 309 dated 14 November 2008 which states that, in terms of section 38 – Discharging of fireworks prohibited:
(1) No person shall in any street or public place or on any private property in any municipal area within the West Rand District, discharge any fireworks without the explicit written approval of the chief fire officer.
(2) Any person who fails to comply with the provisions of subsection (1) shall be guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding R2 000 or in default of payment to imprisonment for a period not exceeding three months or to both such fine and imprisonment.
(3) Any person contravening subsection (1) may admit guilt by paying a fine not exceeding R500.
Mayor Gray added that, “Anyone setting off/ discharging fireworks without approval will receive a fine of up to R2 000 and/ or three months imprisonment.
To report any incidences of illegally selling or discharging fireworks in the West Rand District Municipal area, please contact your local police or 10111.”
