Delhi Police Crack Down on Illegal Firecrackers Ahead of Diwali

Delhi Police seized 1,600 kg of banned firecrackers and arrested six men in multiple operations across the national capital ahead of Diwali. The raids comply with Supreme Court directives to curb air pollution. Arrests included individuals linked to previous offenses, revealing coordinated illegal activities.

In a significant crackdown on illegal fireworks, Delhi Police apprehended six men and seized approximately 1,600 kg of banned firecrackers in different operations throughout the city. These actions precede the Diwali festival, aligning with recent Supreme Court directions to mitigate air pollution and prioritize public safety.

The raids were carried out by the crime branch of the Delhi police in various locations, including Dwarka, Rohini, Uttam Nagar, Shastri Nagar, Mukundpur, and Shahdara, as stated by Deputy Commissioner of Police Pankaj Kumar. Delhi's air quality notoriously deteriorates starting in October, continuing through the winter months.

The police operations uncovered extensive illegal stockpiles. In the first operation, about 916 kg of banned fireworks were seized. Key arrests include Akash Gupta, linked to 916 kg of firecrackers, and Chander Kant, who was associated with Gupta and caught with an additional 400 kg. Other significant apprehensions involved Rishi Raj, Rahul Sagar, Sonu, and Vishal Sharma, revealing a network of coordinated illegal activities.

(With inputs from agencies.)