20 traders held for fleecing consumers

Nearly 20 traders were rounded by the Measurement Units, Standards and Services Department officials for fleecing New Year consumers by using short and unlicensed weights and measures and electronic weighing machines during raids in the Matale district recently, said the Department's staff officer in Matale A.L. Azeez.

The Department is making arrangements to institute legal action against them, he said.

Azeez said weighing machines and other weighing equipment worth nearly Rs. 250,000 were seized during these raids conducted in Matale town, Second Mile Post, Kumbiyangoda, Aluvihare, Palapathwala, Kavudupelella and Rattota areas. The Department will continue such raids to protect the consumers from unscrupulous traders during the festive season.

Any complaints regarding such unscrupulous activities by traders should be made to him or to the Matale District Secretary to ensure swift action by the Department, he added.