{
  "id": 18927659,
  "title": "SPF: Illegal fireworks discharge in Little India can land offenders up to 3 years’ jail and S$50K fine during Deepavali celebrations",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/08/spf-illegal-fireworks-discharge-in-little-india-can-land-offenders-up",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-08T12:00:51.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Independent Singapore",
    "slug": "the-independent-singapore",
    "url": "https://theindependent.sg/spf-illegal-fireworks-discharge-in-little-india-can-land-offenders-up-to-3-years-jail-and-s-50k-fine-during-deepavali-celebrations"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Singapore's police have issued a stern warning against illegal fireworks and sparkler misuse ahead of the Deepavali celebrations, scheduled for November 7, 2025. The police expect large crowds in Little India, especially on the eve of Deepavali, with heavy traffic anticipated on Serangoon Road. Visitors are advised to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their belongings in crowded areas.\n\nUnder the Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Act 2021, illegal possession, discharge, or importation of fireworks can lead to up to three years of imprisonment and a hefty fine of S$50,000. The police have investigated 45 cases of fireworks-related offenses between January and December 2025, involving possession, discharge, and importation.\n\nThe police have cautioned against the dangerous practice of combining multiple sparklers, which can create fire hazards. Under Section 284 of the Penal Code, misuse of sparklers in a manner that endangers others could result in up to one year of jail time, a S$5,000 fine, or both. In case of injury, the jail term could extend to three years.\n\nBoth Little India and Geylang fall under Liquor Control Zones, prohibiting public drinking between 10:30 p.m. on November 6 and 7 a.m. on November 10. Offenders face fines of up to S$1,500, while repeat offenders could be fined up to S$3,000, jailed for 4.5 months, or both. Retailers caught selling liquor beyond permitted hours risk losing their licenses.\n\nThe Birch Road pedestrian crossing outside Anguilla Mosque will be closed from 4 p.m. on November 7 until 4 a.m. on November 8. Alternative crossings are available near Kitchener Link and Baboo Lane. The Campbell Lane crossing might also be closed if needed, with alternatives near Sungei Road or Dunlop Street. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes, while visitors are advised to keep bags secured and carry them in front.\n\nIn case of urgent police assistance, visitors can approach an officer or call 999. Following the rules and prioritizing personal safety can ensure an enjoyable and incident-free Deepavali celebration.",
  "summary": "SINGAPORE: Singapore Police have warned against illegal fireworks and the misuse of sparklers ahead of Deepavali celebrations, reminding the public that offenders face hefty fines and possible jail terms. In an advisory issued on Nov 6, the police said large crowds were expected in Little India, particularly on Saturday (Nov 7), the eve of Deepavali. Heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic was also…",
  "key_points": [
    "Illegal fireworks can result in up to 3 years' jail and S$50K fine",
    "Police investigate 45 fireworks-related offenses in 2025",
    "Liquor sales prohibited in Little India and Geylang during Deepavali"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}