Crackdown against sugar overpricing: over 500 shopkeepers face action

LAHORE: The crackdown on retailers violating government-fixed sugar prices continued across Punjab over the past 24 hours, with action taken against 566 shopkeepers for profiteering, according to the Price Control spokesperson.

During the operation, 73 individuals were arrested, cases were registered against five, and fines were imposed on 496 others. Officials said the move is part of a province-wide campaign to ensure compliance with official sugar rates and curb unjustified price hikes.

The spokesperson said that since the beginning of the drive, action has been taken against 28,328 individuals. Out of these, 1,899 have been arrested, while 330 cases have been registered for repeat violations and serious offences.

Giving a breakdown of recent enforcement activity, the spokesperson stated that 89 retailers faced action in Lahore Division alone. In Gujranwala, 106 shopkeepers were penalised for overcharging, while Faisalabad Division saw 72 such cases.

Other divisions also witnessed active enforcement. In Sahiwal, 19 shopkeepers were penalised; 36 in Sargodha; and 67 in Rawalpindi. Meanwhile, 68 profiteers were booked in Bahawalpur Division, 40 in Dera Ghazi Khan, and 69 in Multan.

Authorities have reiterated that profiteering, particularly in essential commodities like sugar, will not be tolerated. Strict monitoring continues, and officials are carrying out daily inspections of markets to ensure price stability for consumers.

The government had earlier fixed official sugar prices to provide relief to the public amid rising inflation. However, multiple reports of retailers selling above the notified rates prompted stricter enforcement.

The Price Control Department has urged the public to report any violations and assured swift action against those who attempt to exploit consumers.

The province-wide drive is expected to continue in the coming days.

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