MUSCAT : The court convicted both the defendant and the company of failing to provide the agreed-upon service properly and within the specified timeframe. They were also found guilty of failing to issue an invoice written in Arabic confirming receipt of the service.

The ruling included a one-month imprisonment sentence for the defendant, a fine of RO 100 for the first offense, and an additional fine of RO 100 for the second offense. The company was fined RO 100 for each misdemeanour. The defendants were also ordered to fulfil the terms of the contract with the plaintiff and pay compensation of RO 3,000, in addition to covering criminal fees and expert costs.

The case originated from a complaint filed with the Directorate General of Consumer Protection Authority in North Al Batinah, in which a consumer stated that he had agreed with the establishment to fabricate and install doors and windows for RO 10,400, paying an advance of RO 4,600. Despite a two-month completion deadline stipulated in the contract, the establishment failed to deliver the service and continued to delay execution. It also issued an invoice not written in Arabic, prompting the consumer to file a complaint.

The Directorate referred the case to the Public Prosecution, which completed its investigation and transferred the file to the court, resulting in the issued ruling.

The Consumer Protection Authority urged suppliers to uphold credibility, adhere to agreed timelines, and comply with the terms of contracts. It also advised consumers to ensure contracts are written and documented in Arabic to safeguard their rights.

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