In the wake of a fireworks-firing incident in Napier last night police have made it clear they will light the fuse of prosecution under anyone caught mis-using the devices.
Police were called by a Bluff Hill resident about 8.15pm after the caller spotted fireworks allegedly being shot out the window of
a car driving along Coronation St in Ahuriri.
They said it appeared the occupants were aiming at passing properties and other vehicles.
A patrol was quickly in the area but the car, and the four male occupants, had left.
However, a check showed the group appeared to have been stopped earlier in the night as part of a random traffic stop.
"This is being followed up," Napier Police Senior Sergeant Sarah Stewart said.
"We know who they are and they will be spoken to."
Ms Stewart said incidents where cars were involved had the potential to cause a serious accident and there were a raft of charges which could be applied under the Transport Act.
Hefty fines and even imprisonment awaited anyone who caused a serious incident.
"If people see any irresponsible behaviour involving fireworks we want them to call us - we will follow it up."
The incident was one of about five fireworks-related calls reported to Napier police yesterday.
One call was in the wake of what a resident said was teenagers shooting fireworks at their property. Other calls were centred around noise.
Hastings police had an otherwise quiet evening with no fireworks-related calls.
There were two fires overnight in Napier which appeared to have been started by fireworks - both minor vegetation fires in Te Awa Avenue and on Marine Parade.
Police and the Fire Service urged people to be responsible, take safety precautions around fireworks and be mindful of others tonight during Guy Fawkes celebrations.
