Illegal Firework Haul Ahead of Diwali

Police in Uttar Pradesh's Ballia and Jaunpur districts have confiscated over 669 kilograms of illegally stored fireworks and explosive materials, arresting four individuals in preemptive operations before Diwali. In Ballia, Kotwali police detained three men and seized approximately 419 kg of illegal fireworks stored in cartons and a pickup van. Investigations revealed that the accused had sourced the contraband from various suppliers for sale without a license. The driver of the van was hired to transport the fireworks without verifying their legality.

Simultaneously, in Jaunpur's Rampur area, police apprehended one person for illegally stocking more than two quintals of fireworks at his residence. Officers discovered a crowd of customers at the premises, who dispersed upon police arrival. Ten sacks of various types of fireworks were recovered from the location. Further investigations are being conducted by the authorities in both districts to uncover the full extent of the illegal trade.