Muscat – The court convicted the defendants of two misdemeanours: failing to provide the service in accordance with its intended nature, and failing to refund the product’s value, replace, or repair it free of charge when a defect was discovered. Each defendant received a three-month prison sentence and a fine of RO 2,000.

In addition to the penalties, the court ordered the defendants to jointly take back the vehicle and refund its full value of RO 20,500. They were also directed to pay RO 1,500 in compensation for the material and moral damages sustained by the consumer.

The case stems from a vehicle purchase made by a consumer based on a promotional advertisement posted on social media. The advertisement claimed the vehicle had only been in a minor accident and was fully repaired, with no remaining defects. Trusting the information, the consumer paid RO 20,500 and received the vehicle.

However, shortly after delivery, the consumer noticed multiple issues and had the car examined by a professional workshop. The inspection revealed that the vehicle had been in a major accident which compromised its structural integrity and safety, and that the necessary repairs had not been completed as claimed.

The consumer subsequently filed a complaint with the CPA’s department in Al Buraimi, requesting contract termination and a full refund. Following an investigation, the case was escalated to the Public Prosecution, which referred it to the court.

The Consumer Protection Authority emphasised the importance of businesses adhering to consumer protection laws and refraining from deceptive practices. The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing regulations and protecting consumer rights, adding that it will take all necessary legal measures against violators.