The Department of Law Enforcement (LAW) has announced yet another significant achievement in its ongoing efforts to combat the illegal fireworks trade. The Illegal Fireworks Task Force, comprised of state and federal agencies, has successfully intercepted and seized a total of 187,000 pounds of illegal fireworks in all separate operations as of today.
First Seizure:
16 Tons of Aerial Fireworks
The task force seized approximately 16 tons of illegal fireworks in a shipping container, the majority of which were illegal aerial fireworks. Director Jordan Lowe commended the collaborative efforts between law enforcement and industry partners, including the Honolulu Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations, for their role in the successful interdiction.
Second Seizure:
17 Tons Disguised as Other Items
In a subsequent operation, the task force executed a search warrant to seize approximately 17 tons of illegal fireworks from a shipping container that falsely declared its contents as other items. The task force’s diligence likely prevented these fireworks from reaching the black market.
Third Seizure:
Routine Tariff Inspection Yields 17.5 Tons
During a routine tariff inspection of another shipping container transiting from the U.S. mainland to Hawai‘i, the task force discovered an additional 17.5 tons of illegal fireworks. This marks the third such discovery in the last two weeks, highlighting the task force’s effectiveness in preventing the introduction of illegal fireworks into local communities.
Forth Seizure:
24 Tons of Aerial Fireworks
Approximately 24 tons of fireworks were seized in a shipping container by the Illegal Fireworks Task Force today. All the seized fireworks were display fireworks, otherwise known as “1.3G fireworks,” consisting of aerial shells in varying sizes. These 1.3 G fireworks require significant licensure and are only authorized for importation, storage, and use by lawfully permitted entities. They are meant to be used by people who have specialized professional training and not for use by the public. This seizure of fireworks occurred during a routine inspection of goods entering Hawaiʻi. The investigation into the discovery of these fireworks, as well as the investigations of previously seized fireworks, are continuing.
Ongoing Investigations and Community Cooperation
The investigations into these illegal fireworks shipments are ongoing, with Director Lowe emphasizing the commitment of the task force to locate and apprehend those involved in illegal fireworks trafficking. The department has opened a tip line for the public to anonymously provide information about illegal fireworks traffickers, and a separate effort involves deputy sheriffs patrolling the H-1 freeway to ensure public safety during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Director Jordan Lowe expressed confidence in the task force’s ability to make further seizures, reinforcing the commitment to protecting the community from the dangers posed by illegal fireworks. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to the illegal fireworks trade.
Stay tuned for updates as the Illegal Fireworks Task Force continues its mission to keep our communities safe.
INSIGHTS ON PBS HAWAIʻI
Is The Illegal Fireworks Task Force Doing Enough?
Law enforcement teams have seized several dozen tons of illegal fireworks in the last year. Are the efforts paying off?
Scheduled Guests:
Jordan Lowe, Hawaiʻi Department of Law Enforcement Director
Maj. Mike Lambert, Honolulu Police Department
Rep. David Tarnas (D), Judiciary Committee Chair
Tiana Wilbur, Waiʻanae Coast Neighborhood Board Interim Chair
INSIGHTS Episode 2421 Original Airdate: February 8, 2024