Photo: AFP / NurPhoto
A vessel towing cargo from Saipan was intercepted by Guam Customs officers after an inspection uncovered undeclared fireworks.
According to the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency, officers discovered 89 boxes of assorted fireworks concealed inside cargo labeled as "paper towels". The contraband was hidden in a forward compartment of the vessel.
The vessel's master told officers he was unaware of the contents and was unable to provide the required license for the possession and transport of fireworks.
Authorities noted this was the second time the same vessel had been involved in the illegal importation of fireworks from the CNMI.
"This seizure is a reminder that it's not just drugs and people being smuggled between the CNMI and Guam," a law enforcement source said.
"We're seeing an uptick in other forms of undeclared or illegal cargo-from fireworks to counterfeit goods."
Guam law requires that any individual or business importing, distributing, or storing consumer fireworks obtain a license from the Guam Fire Department.
The US Coast Guard, which responded to the scene, confirmed the boat is registered as a recreational vessel and is not legally authorized to tow cargo. The Coast Guard is now conducting its own investigation into possible safety and regulatory violations.
The intercepted fireworks were seized for safekeeping and will be referred to the Guam Fire Department for further action.
