Muscat – The case stems from a complaint submitted to the Consumer Protection Authority’s department in Barka, in which a consumer reported that he had entered into an agreement with the establishment to customise five bedframes for a total of RO 870. An advance payment of RO 450 was made, with both parties agreeing that the items would be delivered within three weeks.

However, the establishment failed to meet the agreed delivery date and repeatedly delayed fulfilment, prompting the consumer to lodge a formal complaint.

As no amicable settlement was reached, the complaint was referred to the Public Prosecution, which investigated the case and subsequently referred it to the competent court. The court issued a ruling convicting the accused representatives of the establishment of two misdemeanours: failure to provide the service properly and in accordance with its nature; and failure to provide the consumer with an invoice written clearly in Arabic to confirm receipt of the service or product.

The court sentenced each representative to fines of RO 500 for the first offense and RO 400 for the second. The penalties were merged, and the harsher sentence of RO 500 was enforced, along with a requirement to pay legal costs.

The Consumer Protection Authority emphasized the importance of business compliance with the Consumer Protection Law issued under Royal Decree No. 66/2014 and its executive regulations. It reaffirmed its commitment to holding violators accountable and protecting consumer rights in all commercial dealings.

“The Authority will not hesitate to take all necessary legal measures against any party that breaches consumer trust or fails to meet legal obligations,” the statement concluded.