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ISLAMABAD, Jul 21 (APP):In an ongoing campaign against profiteering, Islamabad authorities have launched strict action against shopkeepers selling sugar above the government’s notified price.
At least 19 shopkeepers have been arrested in a citywide crackdown following directives from Deputy Commissioner (DC) Islamabad, Irfan Nawaz Memon.
In this regard, multiple teams led by Assistant Commissioners (ACs) carried out inspections across various markets in the capital.
In Nilor, the AC sealed five shops and arrested 11 shopkeepers for selling sugar at inflated rates.
Meanwhile, the AC Saddar conducted an operation in Sector G-13 where eight shopkeepers were taken into custody for similar violations.
Apart from sugar price violations, the crackdown also targeted retailers failing to comply with other essential commodity regulations.
During an inspection, the manager of a well-known supermarket was arrested for not maintaining mandatory essential items on the counters, a clear breach of market compliance rules.
DC Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon has directed all Assistant Commissioners to intensify inspections across the city. He instructed that any shopkeeper or retailer charging more than the notified rate for sugar must be arrested without delay.
He emphasized that profiteering and hoarding are unacceptable, and the district administration will continue the operations without discrimination. He added that ensuring the availability of essential commodities at fixed rates is the top priority of the administration, especially during the current economic challenges.
Memon reaffirmed that shopkeepers flouting government price controls will face strict legal action, including arrests, sealing of shops, and imposition of fines. He instructed monitoring teams to remain active in all markets, ensuring daily price checks and immediate action against violators.
Furthermore, the DC appealed to the public to report any instances of overpricing or shortage of essential commodities. He assured that complaints will be promptly addressed and violators punished under the relevant laws.
The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration also issued a reminder to all retailers to display the official rate lists of essential items, including sugar, at prominent places in their shops. Non-compliance with this directive will also lead to legal action.
The crackdown is part of a broader effort by the government to control inflation and provide relief to citizens facing rising prices of daily use items. In recent weeks, the district administration has stepped up enforcement measures, particularly in response to public complaints about price hikes in sugar and other essential goods.
Authorities have also warned wholesalers and distributors against creating artificial shortages or manipulating prices. The administration is keeping a close watch on supply chains to prevent such practices.
The DC stated that the ongoing operations will continue until full compliance with the official price list is ensured across the city. He urged shopkeepers to adhere strictly to the notified rates to avoid penalties.
The ICT administration has set up complaint cells where citizens can report overpricing, hoarding, or the sale of substandard goods. The administration has assured that prompt action will follow any credible complaint.
The Islamabad police are assisting in the enforcement drives by providing security and ensuring arrests during operations. The joint efforts of law enforcement and administrative teams are expected to deter profiteers and bring stability to the prices of essential commodities.
Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon reiterated that the district administration is fully committed to controlling prices and ensuring that no citizen is forced to pay beyond the official rates. The crackdown will remain active until the profiteering trend is curbed and essential items are available to all at government-fixed prices.
He also emphasized the role of the community in reporting violations and urged citizens to stay vigilant and cooperate with the authorities.