The Rivers State Police Command has announced plans to destroy expired explosive materials in its custody as part of efforts to ensure a safe and secure environment for residents of the state.

The exercise, which is scheduled to take place from December 18 to 20, 2024, at Kporghor Community in Tai Local Government Area of Rivers State, will be carried out by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit of the command.

The police command, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, assured the public that every precautionary measure has been put in place to avert any danger and advised residents not to panic if they hear loud sounds emanating from the exercise.

“We want to assure the public that we have taken every necessary precaution to ensure that the exercise is carried out safely and without any risk to the public,” said Iringe-Koko.

In a related development, the police command has banned the use of fireworks, crackers, and knockouts during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

The command warned that these devices are explosives that can cause harm and disturb the public peace.

“The use of fireworks, crackers, and knockouts during the Yuletide season has become a menace, causing unnecessary panic and disturbance to the public,” said Iringe-Koko.

“We are appealing to the public to desist from using these devices and to report any suspicious activities to the police. Retailers of these devices are also warned to stop sales, as anyone found flouting this order will be arrested and prosecuted,” she added.

The command also assured the public of its commitment to ensuring a peaceful and secure Yuletide season and urged the public to be security conscious and report any suspicious activities to the police.

“We are committed to ensuring that the Yuletide season is celebrated peacefully and securely. We urge the public to cooperate with us by reporting any suspicious activities and desisting from using fireworks, crackers, and knockouts,” said Iringe-Koko.