A joint department operation led to around 3,000 pounds of illegal fireworks, several illegally-owned firearms and cash from sales of illegal drugs seized by authorities.

The joint effort from KCSO, the Crimes Against Persons Unit, Bakersfield and Kern County Fire Departments was a response from the public's plea to combat the presence of illegal fireworks in the community.

On June 10, deputies seized about 3,000 pounds of fireworks, 18 illegal firearms and $9,500 from sales of illegal drugs.

Three people were arrested:

• Fernando Moreno, 23, for possession of illegal fireworks for sale, numerous gun charges
• Jose Luis Garcia, 42, for possession of illegal fireworks for sale
• Jose Elorza, 30, for possession of illegal fireworks for sale and misdemeanor warrants

According to KCSO, deputies have seized around 7,500 pounds of illegal fireworks, arrested five people for their involvement and have seized over $12,000 from proceeds from the sale of illegal fireworks.