Three people were arrested Wednesday after Kerman police detectives seized more than 1,500 pounds of illegal fireworks from a residence in Biola, authorities said.

The investigation began after the Kerman Police Department received information that an individual was offering illegal fireworks for sale through social media, according to a department statement.

Detectives conducted an operation on June 3 that led them to a residence in Biola, where they discovered and confiscated the fireworks. Authorities estimated the retail value of the seized fireworks at approximately $15,000.

Police arrested three Biola residents: Adalberto Gallegos, 32 Raul Gallegos, 20, and Ivan Rodriguez, 21. The three were booked on multiple charges, including felony offenses related to the possession, transportation, and sale of illegal fireworks, police said.

The Kerman Police Department said illegal fireworks pose significant public safety risks, including injuries, property damage and fires, particularly during California’s dry summer months.

Police reminded residents that the only legal consumer fireworks in California are those classified as “Safe and Sane” and bearing the seal of the Office of the State Fire Marshal on their packaging.

Got a Tip?

Authorities encouraged community members to report the use, sale or possession of illegal fireworks within Kerman city limits through the department’s non-emergency dispatch line at (559) 550-2911.

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