Man arrested as Hong Kong police seize 800kg of illegal fireworks worth HK$1 million

Hong Kong Police have charged a man with illegal possession of fireworks and firecrackers after seizing a haul worth HK$1 million (US$128,200) from a shipping container in Tuen Mun, three weeks ahead of the Lunar New Year.Officers from the New Territories North regional anti-triad unit found 58 boxes containing 800kg (1,764lbs) of pyrotechnics during a raid in Tai Lam Chung at about 4pm on Monday, the force said.Senior Inspector Kwok Man-wai said police found the goods in a container rented by the 37-year-old suspect, adding that he was scheduled to appear at Fanling Court on February 12.“Police were committed to an intelligence-led operation to combat fireworks- and firecracker-related offences, intercepting the goods before they flowed into the market,” Kwok said.“These items are extremely likely to cause fires or other serious accidents, posing a major threat to personal and public safety.”Those convicted of illegal possession of fireworks or firecrackers under the Dangerous Goods Ordinance face a maximum penalty of 12 months’ imprisonment and a HK$200,000 fine.