Thousands of illicit fireworks seized across West Yorkshire as part of pre-Bonfire Night crackdown
350kg of fireworks worth an estimated £10,000 were seized
Police have seized £10,000 worth of illicit fireworks in a series of raids targeting shops across West Yorkshire.
West Yorkshire Police has stepped up action ahead of bonfire night, working with West Yorkshire Trading Standards and West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service on this operation.
Officers conducted 20 visits to stores across the county, also managing to sized 52,000 illegal cigarettes and 3,500 illegal vapes.
Assistant Chief Constable Damien Miller of West Yorkshire Police said: “We know the illegal sale and anti-social use of fireworks is a real concern for people in parts of West Yorkshire and that’s why we’re committed to working with our partners to tackle the issue."
“There is a reason that potentially dangerous items like fireworks can only be sold by legal retailers with safeguards about who can buy them.
“I’d like to thank everybody who reported information about the illegal sale of fireworks to us so that we could take action.”
Senior Fire Protection Manager for WYFRS, Chris Kemp, said: “We’re pleased to be part of the enforcement action being taken against these unlawful sellers."
"It’s a vital step in protecting our communities from the dangers posed by the illegal storage of, and unregulated fireworks and ensuring Bonfire Night remains safe and enjoyable for everyone."