Ahead of the 2025 Christmas celebrations, the Osun State Police Command has placed its formations on red alert to ensure the safety of lives and property across the state.
The command has also banned the sale and use of knockouts, bangers, fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices before, during and after the 2025 Christmas and New Year festivities.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, said the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, warned youths against the use of fireworks, citing the dangers and security implications involved.
Ojelabi explained that the loud explosive sounds from knockouts are often mistaken for gunshots or improvised explosive devices, creating unnecessary panic, tension and avoidable security alerts at a time the nation is on heightened security watch.
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”Consequently, the Commissioner of Police has directed that the use of knockouts, bangers and fireworks in residential areas, near hospitals, places of worship, markets, motor parks, along major roads and wherever is strictly prohibited.
”Parents and guardians are urged to prevail on their children and wards against the usage as it could trigger panic.
”Area Commanders, DPOs and Heads of Tactical Units have been ordered to intensify patrols and deal firmly but professionally with anyone found detonating knockouts thereby causing public disturbance or apprehension.”
He warned that anyone whose action leads to public disorder, injury or damage to property as a result of this will be arrested and made to face the full weight of the law.