Illegal fireworks spark off Year of the Snake

Celebrating the arrival of the Year of the Snake, some revellers ignited the skies over Lamma Island and Tai Po with illegal fireworks displays.

A photo circulating online captured fireworks set off at the Yung Shue Wan Ferry Pier on Lamma Island, with a cloud of white smoke enveloping the shoreline.

Another video shared online depicted a fireworks display near Tai Po Waterfront Park, producing loud bangs that lasted for at least 20 seconds around 11 pm on Tuesday.

These illegal fireworks displays sparked discussion online, with some commenters criticising the people setting off the fireworks as lawless, while others expected more fireworks around midnight in line with the New Year's customs. Some even suggested travelling to Japan, where fireworks can be set off freely.

Meanwhile, animal lovers expressed concerns about the noise frightening pets, reminding pet owners to secure their pets by closing doors and windows, with some questioning how the revellers were able to possess fireworks in the city.

Under the Dangerous Goods ordinance, the illegal possession or discharge of fireworks is an offence that carries a maximum penalty of a HK$25,000 fine and six months in jail.