Banteay Meanchey provincial police have issued orders to local authorities throughout the province to discourage people from playing with fireworks, firecrackers and other explosives during festivities for the lunar New Year holiday which will take place from February 12-14.
Provincial police chief Sithi Loh instructed officers to educate the public about dangers associated with explosives and inform them of regulations prohibiting their use. Police must stop the importation of all types of incendiary devices and reach out to local market vendors to ensure compliance.
“Officers need to explain to the public that the sale, import and distribution of firecrackers or fireworks are illegal activities,” said Loh.
Preah Sihanouk Provincial Hall spokesman Kheang Phearum told The Post on January 18 that provincial leaders would hold a meeting in February before the lunar new year to set out guidelines for the holiday and plans for special events.
“The provincial administration will issue an announcement letter to inform the public with regard to what will be prohibited during the holiday,” he said.
Phnom Penh Municipal Hall spokesman Meth Meas Pheakdey told The Post that the authority will issue guidance for the upcoming celebrations.
For last year’s lunar new year festivities, Phnom Penh municipal governor Khuong Sreng advised all residents and government and private entities to refrain from all forms of pyrotechnics. Additionally, gambling was forbidden, and religious or traditional parades required official permission.
