By Pamela Cruz. Peninsula 360 Press [P360P].
Two men were arrested by detectives with the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office Crime Suppression Unit (CSU) for manufacturing and distributing explosive devices.
The suspects were identified as Raymond Chan, a Burlingame resident, and Jeffrey Bernaldez of Daly City.
CSU detectives identified two residences - one an apartment building - in Millbrae and Burlingame where the devices were being manufactured.
Approximately 15 pounds of illegal explosives and specific materials used to manufacture them were seized.
At the time of their arrest, Chan and Bernaldez were also found to be in possession of suspected methamphetamine. Both subjects were booked into the San Mateo County Jail.
Meanwhile, the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office Bomb Unit is conducting an additional investigation regarding criminal charges of manufacturing explosives.
The sheriff's office detailed in a statement that there have been numerous complaints about the use of illegal fireworks this year, so it continues to work on ways to deter the sale and use of them in our communities.
Through criminal investigations and promoting community awareness, the Sheriff's Office hopes for a safe Fourth of July where fireworks are left to the professionals.
In that regard, he reminded that "ALL fireworks are ILLEGAL in unincorporated San Mateo County, as well as in cities and towns contracted by the Sheriff's Office," while fines can be up to a thousand dollars.
"Don't call 911 to report fireworks; instead, call our non-emergency line at 650-363-4911. Don't take chances! Keep your family and community safe!" he stressed.
