Metro

NYPD blows up 5,000 pounds of illegal fireworks (VIDEO)

The NYPD has its own big bang theory.

Bomb squad technicians today destroyed 5,000 pounds of illegal fireworks — ranging in size from sparklers to professional pyrotechnics — ahead of the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

“We want everyone to enjoy the Fourth in the city, but fireworks in the hands of an amateur are extremely dangerous and illegal,” said Mayor Bloomberg.

Police says they’ve busted 70 individuals and seized six vehicles in connection with the transport of illegal fireworks in a massive, city-wide crackdown.

FDNY Fire Marshals in the Firework Enforcement Unit claim to have made 20 arrests, and have seized 300 fireworks cases worth more than $25,000.

“For the last several years, we have been confiscating fireworks, seizing the vehicles of those transporting them, and making arrests,” said Police Commissioner Kelly.

“These enforcement measures appear to be working, as seizures of fireworks are down again this year compared with this time last year. We encourage everyone to celebrate safely, and have a happy Fourth of July.”