CAA intensifies raids on errant traders

by Carol Aloysius

The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA,) has intensified its raids on consumer outlets islandwide to check traders selling their products above the newly revised prices.

"We have already detected over 700 traders selling their products above the gazetted prices and filed court cases against 200 of them. The remaining will be filed before the end of this month. We will continue to carry out these raids to ensure that the public benefits from the reduced prices provided by the government under its 100-day program", Deputy Director Regional, Asela Bandara told the Sunday Observer.

The prices of 13 consumer items were reduced in the mini budget last month. While some traders had adhered to the new revised prices, others continued to sell their products at their former prices.

"The items included wheat flour, bread, chilli powder, corriander, sprats and milk powder.

Those selling these items at enhanced prices will be fined from Rs 10,000 (for small time traders) to Rs 100,000 for large companies. We can also jail them up to six months," Bandara said.

The CAA will conduct a special full day awareness program islandwide today in connection with International Consumer Rights Day for the public, traders, school teachers and students.

"We hope to conduct similar programs while intensifying our raids in view of the forthcoming New Year next month", Bandara said.