Colombo, Oct. 5 – The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) announced that legal proceedings have been initiated against 135 traders across the country for selling rice at inflated prices.

According to the CAA, cases were filed following raids conducted island-wide during the past month.

The authority emphasized that raids will continue against traders who overprice rice or conceal stocks.

It further stated that individuals found guilty of selling rice above the controlled price could face fines between Rs. 100,000 and Rs. 500,000, imprisonment of up to five months, or both.

Private companies violating the regulations may face fines ranging from Rs. 500,000 to Rs. 5 million, and in cases involving stock concealment, the CAA may impose fines, imprisonment, or confiscation of the goods under the Consumer Affairs Authority Act.

In the case of repeat offenders, courts have the authority to double the fines and impose imprisonment of up to one year, the CAA further stated.

Meanwhile, traders have reported an ongoing shortage of ‘Keeri Samba’ rice in the market and have urged authorities to take immediate action to resolve the issue.