60,000 firecrackers seized in C. Java

WONOSOBO, Central Java: Local police seized a total of 50,000 firecrackers in Karanggondang village on Thursday and were searching for two alleged dealers, an official said.

Earlier in the day, police in the neighboring town of Kebumen confiscated 10,000 firecrackers and 40 kilograms of gunpowder in Sumberadi village.

Capt. Sukamto of Central Java Police said a man identified as Sukarman, 33, had been arrested for allegedly producing the firecrackers.

"Sukarman was assisted by three elementary school pupils in producing the firecrackers," Sukamto said.

Sukarman could be charged with violating the 1951 Emergency Law No. 12, an offense which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in jail, the police added. (har/edt)