DEC under Ministry

Irangika Range

The Co-operatives and Internal Trade Ministry yesterday took over the direct control of the Dedicated Economic Centre (DEC) in Dambulla with a view to crack down on a trade mafia that is operating for the past few years.

The Co-operatives and Internal Trade Minister Johnston Fernando made a surprise visit to the Dambulla DEC yesterday morning following a number of complaints received by him of several rackets such as price manipulations, hoarding and creating artificial shortages by this mafia.

The activities of the economic center was controlled by the Management Trust appointed by the Ministry earlier. We received a number of complaints from farmers, traders and consumers regarding many corrupt activities and other rackets at the DEC.

Recently, some parties in the region have demanded huge sums from each trader if they wished to continue at the centre. It is alleged that this sum demanded by them was only the initial payment with more money to follow.

The Minister inspecting all trade stalls at the DEC ordered officials to take over two trade stalls which have been re-rented by its owners to new parties illegally and at higher rates.

The Minister also warned traders that stern action will be taken against those responsible if proved guilty for corruption and malpractices at the DEC premises. “We will also take over their trade stalls as well,” he further said.

Meanwhile, the Minister has decided to issue identity cards to traders and employees attached to the Dambulla DEC.