I’d guess that the “mortar” is not small military-style artillery but a commercial firework device.
I agree. But it doesn't make it necessarily any less lethal.
Saw an article a few years ago where a dumbass in Maine put a mortar on his head and lit it. It exploded on his head instead of launching. His head turned to red mist (according to his friends nearby).
Just because it's a commercial firework doesn't mean it can't be deadly.
Id guess that the mortar is not small military-style artillery but a commercial firework device.
They are also throwing M80s and 1/4 sticks and they are putting them in glass jars with nails, bbs and broken glass.
They are ieds and should be treated as such.