Raids rise as Consumer Affairs Authority probes illegal trading

Protection for consumers during festive season:

Dharma Sri ABEYRATNE

COLOMBO: Continuous raids will be conducted around the island to nab traders fleecing consumers and to safeguard them from illegal activities of traders.

The raids will be conducted by the Consumer Affairs Authority flying squads.

Raids will be conducted to nab traders selling commodities at high prices, not displaying the price index, providing false details, using faulty scales, and selling expired commodities.

Trade, Marketing Development, Co-operative and Consumer Services Ministry sources said the Consumer Protection Authority received 200 complaints on Friday regarding errant traders.

The Authority has inquired into these complaints and conducted 113 raids in Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Hambantota, Katugastota, Kadugannawa, Kandy, Matara, Bambalapitiya, Rajagiriya and several other cities on April 6 and 7 alone.

Ministry sources said this was the first time, the Authority conducted such a large number of raids.

Retail stores belonging to State, Co-op and the private sectors will be investigated. The CAA has specified several items as essential and indicated maximum retail prices.

Those who sell these items at higher prices are liable to be prosecuted. White Sugar, Dried Chilies, Big Onions, Red Onions, Dhal, Dried Sprats, Potatoes, Gram, Green Mung, Canned Fish and Chicken, Gas, Milk Powder, Wheat Flour and Cement are among these items.

The CAA is also conducting awareness programmes for traders on the current regulations and penalties. The Government has assured that the present trend of price reductions would continue after the New Year, affording year-round relief for consumers.

Inform us, says Authority

COLOMBO: The Authority will conduct more raids during the festive season. Customers can inform the Authority via 011-232 1696 if they have been fleeced by traders. The other numbers are 2393577/2445897/2399495 and fax 2399148. Action will be taken immediately.