Gardai issue updated fireworks warning after dangerous incident involving six youths

Gardai and local politicians have urged young people to stop using fireworks in a dangerous manner before someone is seriously injured.

The guards have confirmed that they are investigating an incident in Buncrana at the weekend involving around six youths in dark clothing with their hoods up, who were lighting fireworks in an extremely reckless manner.

The incident happened at Main Street, Buncrana at approximately 8.15pm on Saturday night, October 11, and gardai are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Cllr Jack Murray has revealed how he has been contacted by several concerned locals after fireworks were thrown at passers-by in Buncrana.

“A few people have contacted me about fireworks being thrown at people. It's extremely dangerous,” he said. “Young kids and vulnerable people have been very shaken by this.”

It is illegal to import, hold, sell or use fireworks without a licence in Ireland – and Cllr Murray says the guards are investigating.

He reiterated his call for those involved in targeting people with fireworks to cease immediately.

“I know that the guards have been informed and will be keeping an eye on it. Anyone involved in this should take stock of what they're doing and stop.”

The Buncrana Sinn Fein councillor has urged everyone to have a safe Halloween.

“Let's all enjoy the Halloween period together,” he added.

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Meanwhile, Gardai have warned that fireworks are illegal and their use can have devastating consequences.

“Halloween is approaching and we urge anyone who is thinking about buying or using fireworks to have a rethink,” a Garda spokesperson said.

“Many horrific life-changing injuries are sustained at Halloween and during the run-up to it every year by fireworks.”

“Fireworks are not only dangerous, but there are severe criminal penalties for anyone who is found guilty of the offence of igniting an illegal firework, throwing an ignited firework at a person or property, or possession of illegal fireworks for sale or supply. The penalties are fines of up to €10,000 and 5 years imprisonment.”

The guards have urged anyone who comes across fireworks for sale, or any type of antisocial or illegal behaviour in the run-up to or at Halloween, to alert their nearest Garda Station immediately.