An Indian-origin man has been charged in Singapore for illegally setting off fireworks as part of Diwali festivities, despite a nationwide ban on such displays. The incident, involving Dilip Kumar Nirmal Kumar, reportedly took place on Carlisle Road. Authorities are investigating the matter, which came to light after a video of the fireworks display circulated online.
Kumar is alleged to have ignited fireworks in an open field along Carlisle Road, an action that contravenes Singapore’s Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Act 2021. Investigations were initiated after a complaint was lodged, following the online video that captured the pyrotechnics.
Eyewitnesses reported that the incident occurred around 10:15 PM at a construction site. Dilip Kumar Nirmal Kumar appeared in court via video link and is scheduled to reappear on November 20. Under Singapore’s Dangerous Fireworks Act, individuals found guilty of this offense can face imprisonment for up to two years and fines ranging from S$2,000 to S$10,000, or both.
This is not an isolated incident, as Singapore has seen similar cases. In 2019, a man was fined S$5,000 for setting off fireworks. More recently, in April 2024, another man was arrested and fined S$5,000 for a similar violation.