Authorities in Davao City have made a significant arrest as part of a strict crackdown on prohibited pyrotechnics. A young vendor was taken into custody after allegedly selling illegal firecrackers at a popular public market just days before the New Year.
Entrapment Operation Nets Suspect
Police officers from the Toril Police Station conducted an entrapment operation at the Toril Public Market on the afternoon of Monday, December 29, 2025. The operation, which took place around 2:40 p.m., led to the arrest of a male vendor identified as Salman, 27, a resident of Lao Street in Toril.
The suspect was allegedly caught in the act of selling firecrackers that are explicitly banned under Davao City's local laws. This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by local police to enforce safety regulations during the holiday season, a time when the use of such items traditionally spikes.
Haul of Confiscated Firecrackers
Following the arrest, police confiscated a substantial inventory of illegal pyrotechnics from the vendor. The seized items included:
- Several reams of Leopard King firecrackers
- Original Piccolo firecrackers
- Satu Missiler and Three Star firecrackers
- Multiple sticks of Roman Candle (with 30 to 60 shots each)
- Three full cartons of sparkles
This variety of contraband underscores the persistent market for these dangerous goods despite the long-standing prohibition.
Strict Enforcement and Legal Consequences
The suspect, Salman, is now facing inquest proceedings for violating two key regulations: City Ordinance 060-02, widely known as the Davao Firecracker Ban Ordinance, and Republic Act 7183, the national law regulating the manufacture, sale, and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.
Police Colonel Mannan Caracas Muarip, the acting city director of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), issued a stern warning to the public. He emphasized that authorities are rigorously enforcing the firecracker ban and the prohibition on indiscriminate firing of guns. Colonel Muarip stressed that the law applies to everyone, with no exceptions.
“No mercy,” Colonel Muarip stated firmly. “Anyone caught violating the law will be immediately arrested, charged, and held accountable.” He clarified that violators, whether civilians or police officers, will face criminal charges, substantial fines, and potential dismissal from service for uniformed personnel.
To ensure public safety during the holiday period, the DCPO has intensified its visibility and operations across the city. This includes maintaining police checkpoints, increasing patrols, and conducting continuous anti-criminality operations. The arrest in Toril serves as a clear message that the ban is actively being policed.
