While KZN police have vowed to crack down on the illegal sale of fireworks, police spokesman Lt Col Vincent Mdunge said, at this stage, all was quiet and no arrests or confiscation of goods had been made.
Earlier KZN police spokesman Col Jay Naicker said people who sold fireworks on the street would be arrested as no licences have been issued to street vendors allowing them to sell fireworks to the public. Licences needed to be displayed clearly on the window or door of shops that have been given the go-ahead to sell fireworks, he said.
Mdunge confirmed that at this stage – as far as the police were aware – there were no contraventions of the law in this regard.
This year’s Diwali promises to be a cracker of note (pardon the pun) as it falls on the same day as Guy Fawkes (traditionally on November 5). In addition, this year also marks the commemoration of 150 years of the Indian community in South Africa, a landmark being heralded by the Indian and broader community.
As always at this time of year, there are concerns for the safety of people and animals. The Durban and Coast SPCA has published its list of how to keep your pets safe this Diwali:
**Ensure your pets have identification – microchips or collar tags
**If possible stay home when you suspect fireworks will be set off
**If you can’t be home with your pets keep them inside draw the curtain and play calming music
**Put their toys or blankets near and give them a bone to chew or a catnip toy for cats
**If your pets react very badly consult your vet who may prescribe a tranquiliser