54 arrested over illegal profiteering

LAHORE:The district administration has intensified price control measures following the chief minister’s directives and raided 2,524 points resulting in the arrest of 54 violators during the last 24 hours.

Lahore Deputy Commissioner Rafia Haider told media here on Sunday that the price control magistrates imposed hefty fines on 211 shopkeepers and sealed various sale points. Around 71 individuals are facing cases over profiteering. In an effort to ensure the sale of essential commodities at prescribed rates, stringent monitoring is under way across the city and price control magistrates are conducting rigorous operations.

A total of 49,850 locations were inspected and 63 points were sealed during the last month, while 1,333 individuals were arrested over profiteering and a fine was also imposed on 3,782 shopkeepers. Cases were also registered against 1,884 individuals.

During Ramazan, approximately 33,882 sale points were scrutinised, resulting in fines imposed on 3,534 shopkeepers and traders over profiteering and overcharging. The DC emphasised zero-tolerance on profiteering as per directives of the CM and urged upon price control magistrates to remain proactive. Rafia Haider also advised the general public to check prices on the price check App before making purchases and in case of any profiteering, contact Punjab Chief Minister Helpline or tag them on social media.

102 cases registered against beggars

Traffic Police on Sunday booked 102 professional beggars in a grand operation. Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Lahore Amara Athar, in a press statement, said that the number of professional peddlers increased in Ramazan, adding in this connection, four squads have been formed for a crackdown. She said 102 cases have been registered against beggars in Ramazan.

The CTO Lahore further said that more than 830 children and elderly beggars were released after giving a warning. Amara Athar has ordered the divisional and circle officers to take strict action against beggars. The CTO said that professional beggars are being removed from main signals, while cases have been registered against those begging on fake disability. Citizens should support the traffic police in discouraging such elements because your hard earned money is not for cheaters, she appealed.