CAA raids yield Rs 70 in fines

Irangika Range

The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) earned Rs 70 million in fines from errant traders following islandwide raids from January 1 to September 10.

“In all, 21,182 business establishments violated rules and regulations of the the Consumer Protection Act,” Co-operatives and Internal Trade Minister Johnston Fernando said.

The minister said legal action had been initiated against errant traders for fleecing consumers by selling commodities at a higher than the maximum stipulated retail price, selling outdated goods and failing to display the prices of goods, transporting vegetables without the use of plastic crates, non - issuance of guarantees, not displaying prices of items advertised through electronic and print media and hoarding and selling goods under unhygienic conditions.

The minister said the Authority received a number of public complaints regarding errant traders.

The CAA received a number of complaints regarding errant traders and milk powder importers who sold infant milk powder at higher prices than the stipulated controlled price.

Minister Fernando instructed CAA chairman Rumi Marzook to intensify raids and take stern action against any trader who charges higher prices for infant milk powder.

Fernando said the CAA would ensure strict enforcement of consumer laws for consumers’ benefit.

“These efforts are not to put traders into trouble, but, to provide a good service to consumers,” he said.