Man Selling Illegal Firecrackers Online, Arrested

A 22-year-old male student will now be facing charges for violation of R.A. 7183, also known as the “Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution, and Use of Firecrackers and Pyrotechnic Devices,” following his arrest for selling illegal firecrackers in Brgy. City Camp Proper, Legarda Road, Baguio City on December 26, 2024.

Based on the reports, the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit Cordillera Administrative Region (RACU-CAR), in coordination with the Baguio City Police Office, successfully launched an entrapment operation that led to the arrest of the suspect and the confiscation of a variety of prohibited firecrackers, including ten pieces of KingKong, 200 pieces of Five Star, ten pieces of Whistle Bomb, 30 pieces of Kwitis, alongside ten pieces of Lucis, three pieces each of Tiger Fountain, Everest Fountain, and Botibot Fountain.

Reports revealed that the operation stemmed from RACU-CAR’s proactive cyber patrolling efforts, which led to the identification of the suspect engaging in the online sale of firecrackers on social media. After confirming the illegal activity through online messaging, RACU-CAR operatives set up a transaction and apprehended the suspect during the delivery.

The suspect is currently under the custody of the Baguio City Cyber Response Team for documentation pending inquest proceedings. In addition to charges for violation of R.A. 7183, the suspect will also face charges for violating Executive Order No. 28 s. 2017, in relation to Section 6 of R.A. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

“With the New Year festivities fast approaching, we urge everyone to prioritize safety and adhere to the laws regulating firecrackers,” said PCOL LARRY D BUANSI, Chief of RACU-CAR.

“The illegal sale and use of firecrackers not only endanger lives but also carry serious legal consequences. Instead, we encourage the public to enjoy the fireworks displays organized by their respective local government units. These events provide a safer and more organized way to celebrate while ensuring the safety of our communities,” he added. (PIO PRO-CAR /File Photos)