A shop in Akkaraipattu has been fined Rs. 100,000 for selling Keeri Samba rice above the maximum retail price, the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) said.
The Akkaraipattu Magistrate’s Court imposed the fine after the trader was found guilty of violating regulations on controlled rice prices.
According to gazette notifications, the maximum retail price for one kilogramme of Keeri Samba rice is Rs. 260. However, the shop had sold two kilogrammes for Rs. 800, amounting to Rs. 400 per kilogramme, exceeding the approved price by Rs. 140 per kilo.
The raid was carried out by officers of the CAA’s Ampara District Office, who subsequently filed action in court. The shop owner pleaded guilty to the offence.
The CAA said it will continue to take legal action against traders who sell rice above the stipulated prices and urged consumers to check the maximum retail price when making purchases.
Consumers were also advised to report such incidents to the CAA hotline 1977 with relevant receipts. (NewsWire)