MUSCAT: The ruling follows a complaint submitted by a consumer who purchased a new vehicle from a dealership in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. During the warranty period, the consumer reported unpleasant odours inside the vehicle, prompting multiple repair attempts by the establishment; however, the issue persisted.

According to case details, an independent expert later confirmed the presence of a manufacturing defect. Despite being presented with the expert report, the establishment refused to replace the vehicle or refund its value, in violation of consumer protection obligations.

The consumer subsequently filed a complaint with the relevant department, which completed its procedures before referring the case to the Public Prosecution. Investigations were carried out, and the case was then referred to the competent court.

The court found the first and third defendants guilty of failing to comply with obligations to replace, refund, or repair the defective product. Each was fined RO 1,000, bringing the total penalty to RO 2,000. The second defendant was acquitted, while the civil claim was referred to the competent court.