DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Feb 22 (APP): Acting on the directives of the provincial government, Assistant Commissioner Paharpur Dr Hamid launched a vigorous crackdown against profiteers to ensure the availability of essential commodities at official prices during Ramazan.
According to official sources, price control teams inspected various markets in Chashma, Umar Khel Pakka, Kirri Khaisur, Bilot, Dhakki, Kotjai, Rangpur and Paharpur. The teams particularly reviewed the prices of chicken, gram flour (besan), sugar, rice, vegetables and fruits to ensure compliance with the government-notified rates.
The Assistant Commissioner also conducted surprise visits during Iftar hours to markets in Rangpur, Saydallian, Dhalla and Hafizabad. During the inspections, one shopkeeper was arrested and sent to lock-up for violating the official price list, while four shops were sealed.
Additionally, fines amounting to Rs 29,000 were imposed on several shopkeepers over profiteering and non-compliance.
The crackdown was carried out to establish effective deterrence against overcharging and to ensure uninterrupted supply of food items to the public at officially notified prices during the holy month.
On the occasion, the Assistant Commissioner issued strict instructions that no leniency would be shown to profiteers. He directed traders to prominently display price lists at their shops and warned that exploitation of consumers through unjustified price hikes would not be tolerated.
The tehsil administration reaffirmed its commitment to continuing indiscriminate action against elements working against public interest throughout Ramazan.