Phnom Penh authorities yesterday issued what has become an annual edict banning the use of firecrackers and fireworks during the upcoming Chinese New Year in a bid to stop accidental fires.

The statement from City Hall “bans blowing up firecrackers and fireworks or anything causing an explosion on this occasion, and also bans all kinds of gambling”.

Any religious procession taking place without prior permission is also banned.

“Anyone who violates this order and causes chaos or disorder in society must be held responsible before the law,” the statement reads.

Chinese New Year will this year last from February 7 to February 10. It is widely celebrated by Cambodia’s large community of people of Chinese ancestry.

City spokesman Long Dimanche said the ban was issued because revellers have “carelessly” used fireworks and firecrackers in previous years, leading to fires.

City Hall also warned people in all buildings, whether state-owned or private, to be extra cautious when lighting incense sticks and stoves used to burn fake money.