An Indian-origin man has been arrested in Singapore for allegedly setting off fireworks during Diwali celebrations, despite the country’s strict ban on pyrotechnics, local media reported via PTI. The accused, Dilip Kumar Nirmal Kumar, reportedly ignited fireworks along the open field of Carlisle Road last week, an act considered illegal under Singapore’s Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Act 2021, according to Channel News Asia.

The case came to light after an eight-second video clip of the fireworks display surfaced online. The video, shared by onlooker Aun Koh on his Instagram story, showed the pyrotechnics in action. Eyewitnesses told Shin Min Daily Newsthat the incident occurred at approximately 10:15 pm near a construction site on Carlisle Road, close to Kampong Java Flyover. Following the video’s circulation, the police confirmed that a complaint had been lodged and that investigations were underway, as reported by The Straits Times.

Dilip Kumar Nirmal Kumar appeared in court via video link on Thursday as part of proceedings for individuals under custody. He is scheduled to reappear in court on November 20, according to PTI.

Singapore has stringent regulations concerning fireworks under the Dangerous Fireworks Act, which mandates that anyone caught setting off dangerous fireworks can face up to two years in jail, a fine ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, or both. Previous cases illustrate the strict enforcement of this law: the first conviction under the Act occurred in March 2019, when Alagappan Singaram, 54, and his 19-year-old son, A. Hariprasanth, were fined $5,000 after setting off fireworks in Bukit Batok in November 2018.

A similar violation was recorded on April 9, 2024, when a 40-year-old man was arrested and fined $5,000 for discharging dangerous fireworks. These incidents underscore Singapore’s zero-tolerance approach toward illegal fireworks, highlighting the seriousness of Dilip Kumar Nirmal Kumar’s alleged offense.

Authorities have repeatedly emphasized that while Diwali is a time of celebration, the use of fireworks without proper authorization poses serious safety risks to the public and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment. The case involving Dilip Kumar serves as a reminder that Singapore enforces strict compliance with its laws on pyrotechnics, regardless of cultural or festive considerations.

The incident has sparked discussion among the Indian community in Singapore, as it highlights the balance between celebrating traditional festivals and adhering to local safety regulations. The police continue to investigate, and the upcoming court hearing on November 20 is expected to determine the consequences for Kumar.

In the context of Singapore’s previous cases, authorities may impose a substantial fine, jail term, or both, reflecting the government’s commitment to public safety. The law aims not only to prevent injuries but also to mitigate property damage, noise pollution, and other risks associated with unlicensed fireworks.

This episode is part of a broader pattern of enforcement under Singapore’s Dangerous Fireworks Act, where authorities have consistently acted against violators during festivals. By doing so, the government emphasizes the importance of legal compliance and public safety over celebratory indulgence, even during major cultural events like Diwali.

Dilip Kumar Nirmal Kumar’s arrest serves as a cautionary tale for residents and expatriates in Singapore, demonstrating that even brief or seemingly harmless use of fireworks without permission can result in serious legal consequences. Authorities continue to monitor celebrations across the city-state to prevent similar incidents in the future, reinforcing Singapore’s stringent approach toward maintaining safety during festive periods.

The upcoming court proceedings will be closely watched, as they may set a precedent for how Singapore balances cultural celebrations with adherence to national safety laws. The case also highlights the role of social media in reporting and tracking violations, as the viral video played a key role in alerting authorities.

As investigations continue, the community has been reminded to respect local laws and find safe, legal alternatives to celebrate festivals, ensuring that cultural traditions can be honored without compromising public safety or legal obligations.