NBI seizes assorted firecrackers in raids

An undetermined amount of assorted firecrackers were seized in a series of raids conducted by the elements of the National Bureau of Investigation on three business establishments in the downtown area yesterday afternoon.

The NBI operatives simultaneously raided the WST Marketing owned by Rey Sison, Binzu Marketing owned by Gay Go Sison, and another establishment owned by Caren Marquez Tan, all situated along Vicente Gullas Street.

The raids were conducted by virtue of search warrants issued by Municipal Trial Court in Cities Executive Judge Oscar Andrino. The NBI raiding teams led by executive officer Ernesto Macabare were able to obtain search warrants from the court after a series of surveillance operations.

The Firearms and Explosives Divisions of the Philippine National Police issued certifications that the three establishments were not licensed firecrackers and pyrotechnics dealers in violation of Section 4 Republic Act 7183, otherwise known as the Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution and Use of Firecrackers and other Pyrotechnics.

Based on initial investigation conducted by NBI special investigator Arnel Pura, it was confirmed that those establishments were engaged in selling firecrackers and pyrotechnics sans permit and license from the PNP.

The seized assorted firecrackers included piccolo, moon travelers and base missile but the NBI has yet to determine their value.

Charges for violation of the firecrackers law will be filed today against the storeowners before the City Prosecutor's Office. - Fred P. Languido