In an unprecedented crackdown, the Gardena police confiscated over 75 tons of illegal fireworks last week from a warehouse on Vermont Avenue, as reported by NBC Los Angeles. The cache, which is said to be the largest in California's recent history, is estimated to hold a street value between $7 to $10 million. With the seizure, Gardena Police doubled a record previously set by a 2021 operation that nabbed 32 tons of fireworks.
Three individuals have been arrested in connection with the discovery according to CBS News Los Angeles. Alleged to be part of the operation, Alejandro Rodriguez, 44, and Daniel Gudino, 25, both from Wilmington, and Natalie Navarro, 30, from Carson are currently facing charges related to possession of explosives and various weapons violations. Their arrest marks a significant moment in the fight against illegal fireworks distribution.
Areli Perez-Adard, a resident of the same block, claimed that it feels "like an earthquake," with big booms frequently disrupting the night, she told NBC Los Angeles. This seizure could thus signify a much-needed reprieve for the local community, long tormented by the illegal fireworks detonations.
Gardena Police Chief Mike Saffell issued a stern warning saying, “The Gardena Police Department is taking a zero-tolerance approach to enforcing fireworks laws,” as obtained by NBC Los Angeles. The police department will be holding a press conference on Wednesday at 11 a.m. to discuss further details about the seizure. Meanwhile, they urge anyone with information related to the investigation to come forward and contact the special investigation unit at (310) 217-6193.
