A fine of OMR 2,800 imposed on a commercial establishment in South Al Batinah

Muscat: The Primary Court in the Wilayat of Barka issued a judicial ruling convicting a commercial establishment and its owner for violating the provisions of the Consumer Protection Law issued by Royal Decree No. (66/2014) and its Executive Regulations.

The court ordered a total fine of OMR (2,800) against both parties, in addition to obligating them to pay the costs of the criminal case.

The details of the case relate to a complaint submitted by a consumer to the Consumer Protection Administration in Barka, stating that he had contracted with a commercial establishment to manufacture home furniture, including sofas, beds, and curtains, for a total value of OMR (1,500).

He paid an advance amount of OMR (700), with an agreement that the work would be completed within three months from the date of contracting.

However, the establishment breached the agreement and failed to deliver any of the agreed items, prompting the consumer to file an official complaint requesting the refund of the amount paid. When confronted, the owner of the establishment admitted to the contract with the consumer and to the delay in completing the work, which required the Authority to take the necessary legal measures.

The file was referred to the Public Prosecution, which completed the investigation and referred the case to the competent court. After reviewing the case and hearing both parties, the court issued its judgment convicting the establishment and its owner of the misdemeanor of “failing to provide the service properly and in accordance with its nature.”

The court ruled to fine each of them OMR (1,000) and ordered them to pay the claim amount of OMR (700) to the consumer, in addition to compensation amounting to OMR (100) for the damages suffered by him, and to terminate the contract concluded between the parties. They were also ordered to bear the costs of the criminal lawsuit, while the civil claim was referred to the competent court for review.

The Consumer Protection Authority affirmed the continuation of its efforts to enforce market regulations and protect consumer rights. It called on all establishments and companies to fully comply with the provisions of the laws and regulations, stressing that it will not hesitate to take legal action against violators.