An operation of the National Police of Peru (PNP) deployed in the early morning allowed the seizure ten tons of pyrotechnics in a four-story building located in the district of Commas. The intervention, carried out by agents from the Criminal Investigation Division, revealed that part of the pyrotechnic material was presented in envelopes whose design imitated the packaging of candy for children, a situation that increases the risk of accidents.
The seized merchandise, valued at two hundred fifty thousand solesremained stored without basic security measures. According to the general Manuel Lozadapolice chief in charge of the operation, the devices were distributed throughout all the floors of the building, which increased the exposure to danger of both the residents and nearby neighbors. “There was no fire extinguisher, no escape signage, no protection measures,” Lozada said during a statement to the local press. The simple presence of a spark could trigger a disaster, not only for those who lived in the house, but also for the surrounding community.
Among the seized materials were little stories, bombardments and other pyrotechnics usually sold at end-of-year celebrations. However, the discovery of products hidden in candy-like wrappers showed an especially risky modality, due to the possibility that minors might confuse the explosives with candy. According to the information collected by the police, these products circulated from a common address and lacked any security control or supervision.
The general Lozada He explained that the intervention is part of a preventive strategy against the increase in incidents caused by the inappropriate handling of fireworks. The procedure was officially classified as a crime against public safety in the form of common danger. The authorities warned that the transportation, storage and use of these devices must be carried out with strict protocols to avoid incidents.
The alert for unregulated fireworks increases around Christmas, when demand for these products increases. Police intervention in Commas recalls the risks linked to the storage and marketing of fireworks in densely populated urban areas. The fire in the area of Round Table that occurred in December 2021 is still present in Lima’s collective memory. In that event, the deflagration of irregularly stored pyrotechnics caused serious material damage and tragic consequences.
The National Police of Peru He reiterated his call to citizens to avoid purchasing fireworks in informal circuits. He insisted that, in the event of any suspicion regarding the origin or manner of storage of these products, official reporting channels be immediately resorted to. Irresponsibility in the handling or sale of fireworks puts the lives and safety of families at risk, especially minors.police sources stressed.
The seizure of the ten tons in Commas It adds to the inspection actions that the authorities intensify in the period prior to the holidays. Investigations continue to determine the exact origin of the merchandise and the legal responsibilities of those involved.
