15 profiteers arrested as action continues against violations of official prices

A total of 15 profiteers were arrested on the sixth day of Ramazan on Friday as the district administration continued with action against profiteering.

Action was taken against a total of 193 shopkeepers on Friday, resulting in imposition of fines amounting to Rs16.55 million. Additionally, 15 profiteers were arrested, and 12 shops sealed. In the first six days of Ramadan, the authorities imposed fines exceeding Rs166 million as action was taken against 985 shopkeepers. A total of 97 shopkeepers were arrested and 68 shops sealed across the city.

According to district-wise details, fines amounting to Rs 7.87 million were imposed in District South, Rs1.92 million in District East, Rs500,000 in District West, Rs1.49 million in Central, Rs1.03 million in District Malir, Rs 2.30 million in District Korangi, and Rs 550,000 in District Keamari on Friday.

Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi has directed the deputy commissioners to enforce official pricing and take stern action against violators. Citizens can report against profiteering through the helpline 1299, WhatsApp at 0316-0111712, or control room numbers 021-99205634 and 021-99203443.

Complaints can also be lodged via the online portal at https://www.ckcmsgov.com. The authorities have urged the public to report violations to ensure fair pricing during the holy month.

Additional Deputy Commissioner-I Asim Abbasi and Assistant Commissioner Hameer Ahmed conducted inspections in various markets of North Nazimabad Buffer Zone as part of the ongoing campaign against profiteering.

During the visits, price checking was carried out, and actions were taken against those selling goods at inflated rates. As a result, three profiteers were arrested, and several others fined.

Speaking to the media, Abbasi stated that complaints about overpricing in Buffer Zone were received, prompting the crackdown. He emphasised that Deputy Commissioner Taha Saleem had issued strict instructions to eliminate profiteering and price manipulation in the district.