abu dhabi // A senior police chief yesterday called on the public to report any shops or street vendors they find selling fireworks in the capital over Eid. Col Maktoum al Sharifi, the director of Abu Dhabi Police CID, also urged the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Endowments to use tomorrow's prayer speeches to warn people about the dangers of fireworks. He said it was necessary "to ensure the safety of our children and not turn the happy Eid spirit into a tragedy".
As well as the public, Col al Sharifi called on the municipalities of Abu Dhabi and Al Ain to increase their shop inspections and to report any outlet or individual selling fireworks. Their sale to the general public is banned. He warned that vendors could face legal action if caught selling such products. He also urged parents to make their children aware of the dangers of fireworks, and to ensure they did not buy them. He said he wanted everyone to enjoy "an Eid without accidents".
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