Sharjah Police have arrested a man found in possession of 18,670 pieces of illegal fireworks, authorities said, as part of ongoing efforts to combat unlawful activities that pose risks to public safety across the emirate.
The suspect was also using his vehicle to promote the sale of the fireworks, according to officials. The arrest followed careful monitoring by specialised police teams who had been tracking suspicious activities linked to illegal fireworks trading.
After obtaining the necessary legal approvals, the police team located the storage site where the fireworks were kept. Officers confirmed the large quantity of prohibited materials and seized them as part of the operation.
Authorities said the action reflects Sharjah Police’s continued commitment to preventing the circulation of dangerous materials in the community and enforcing strict regulations governing explosives and fireworks.
Colonel Dr Khalifa Balhayi, Director of Investigations at Sharjah Police, warned that the irresponsible use of fireworks can have serious consequences for residents.
“Irresponsible use of fireworks causes panic and anxiety, especially among children and the elderly, because of the sudden loud noises,” he said.
Balhayi explained that such disturbances can negatively affect people’s sense of security, particularly in residential neighbourhoods where unexpected explosions may alarm families and vulnerable residents.
He emphasised that maintaining community safety remains a key priority for Sharjah Police and other law enforcement agencies in the emirate. Authorities also stressed that illegal fireworks can cause fires, injuries and property damage when used improperly or without proper safety measures.
Police said that surveillance campaigns are continuing in cooperation with other authorities to identify and dismantle networks involved in the illegal trade, distribution and storage of fireworks.
Balhayi added that these coordinated operations form part of a broader plan to prevent the circulation of unlicensed explosive materials and ensure that safety regulations are strictly enforced.
He also called on parents to play an active role in protecting their children by educating them about the dangers of fireworks.
Parents should closely supervise their children and explain the legal and health risks associated with handling fireworks, he said.
Authorities believe that community awareness and cooperation are essential to preventing accidents and reducing illegal activities.
The Sharjah Police General Command urged members of the public to report suspicious activities related to fireworks trading or storage.
Residents can contact police through the non-emergency number 901 to report concerns and assist authorities in maintaining security and stability in the emirate.
In the United Arab Emirates, trading in illegal fireworks is considered a criminal offence under federal law.
According to legal provisions, individuals who trade in, import, export, manufacture or transport fireworks without a valid licence may face severe penalties.
Violators can be punished with imprisonment for a minimum period of one year and a fine of no less than Dh100,000. Courts may impose either penalty or both depending on the severity of the offence.
These penalties are outlined under Article 54 of Federal Decree Law No. 17 of 2019 concerning weapons, ammunition, explosives, military materials and hazardous substances.
The law broadly defines explosives as chemical compounds or mixtures that react under certain conditions, producing pressure, heat and speed capable of damaging surrounding areas.
Fireworks fall within this definition due to their explosive components and the potential risks associated with their use.
Article 3 of the same decree law states that the possession, acquisition, transport, manufacture or trade of explosives and related materials is strictly prohibited without obtaining a licence or permit from the relevant authorities.
Officials say these regulations are designed to protect public safety and prevent misuse of hazardous materials. Sharjah Police reiterated that they will continue to intensify inspections, monitoring and enforcement operations to curb the illegal trade of fireworks.
Authorities also encouraged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure the safety and well-being of communities across the emirate.