2 dead due to firecracker, stray bullet amid New Year 2024 revelry —PNP

Two persons were killed due to firecracker and stray bullet incidents after the celebration of New Year 2024, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Monday.

In its update as of 6 a.m., the PNP said that 509 people were injured due to firecrackers and one person was wounded due to a stray bullet.

The Department of Health however said 116 new victims due to fireworks were admitted to hospitals from 6 a.m. of December 31 to 5:59 a.m. of January 1.

One person was also reported injured due to illegal discharge of firearms.

The PNP has recorded 13 incidents of illegal discharge of firearms, where 13 suspects were arrested and eight firearms were confiscated.

In an incident in Zamboanga on Sunday, a policeman was involved. According to Fajardo, the cop who was drunk used his firearm behind their barracks.

The cop is currently under police custody and will face criminal and administrative charges that may lead to his dismissal from the service.

Due to illegal firecrackers, 26 people have been arrested.

Authorities have confiscated 193,320 pieces of illegal firecrackers worth P3,694,794.50. Most of these firecrackers are Judas’ belt, five star, piccolo, and kwitis.

Violators may face up to a year of imprisonment, a fine of up to P30,000, and the cancellation of license and business permits.

Two fire incidents caused by firecrackers also killed two individuals and injured nine others, according to the PNP.

PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo said the celebration of New Year 2024 in the country has been generally peaceful.

“Naging mapayapa naman pangkalahatan nationwide iyong ating naging monitoring po sa pagsalubong po ng Bagong Taon,” Fajardo told GMA Integrated News’ Unang Balita.

(We have monitored that the celebration of the New Year has been generally peaceful nationwide.)

Fajardo said the PNP will maintain its heightened alert status until next week to provide security for the anticipated influx of passengers in terminals, seaports, and airports after the New Year celebration. —KG, GMA Integrated News