The Police Command in Sokoto State has banned the use of fireworks and knockouts during the forthcoming Christmas and New Year festivities in the state.
The Police Public Relations Officer for the command, DSP Al-Mustapha Sani, who made the disclosure in Sokoto on Sunday, said the measure becomes necessary due to the prevailing security situation in the country.
Sani said the use fireworks and knockouts were capable of frightening the residents, who might misconstrue them and panic.
The police spokesman warned residents, especially the youth, against flouting the ban, and appealed to the parents and guardians to keep watchful eyes on their children and wards.
He warned that “anyone found wanting in this regard will be dealt with accordingly’’.
Sani gave the assurance that the command would do its best to ensure peaceful and memorable Christmas and New Year for the residents.
Also, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) said the command had mapped out strategies to ensure peaceful yuletide celebrations.
It’s Commander, Yusha’u Aliyu, told newsmen that the command had put its personnel “on red alert in this direction’’.
“We have braced up to the additional security challenges that may come up during Christmas and New Year,’’ Aliyu said.
