Major crackdown in Riffa against vendors encroaching roads

Arrests were made and items were confiscated as part of a major crackdown against rogue traders and illegal workers in Riffa. Traders flouting rules were warned after a number of violations were found as authorities carried out inspection visits across markets in Riffa.

The campaign by the Southern Municipality resulted in the arrest of a number of illegal workers as well as confiscating of a large number of items. The Inspection and Licensing Inspection Department has recently held numerous inspection efforts. According to reports, the violating businesses used the space in front of their shops to either sell their products or to use it as a work-space thereby encroaching the road.

Sources said the items confiscated included furniture, chairs, electronic and electrical appliances, fruit and vegetables. “The items were kept outside the premises of the shops with an intention to encroach roads and this contributed to traffic jams,” the sources said. Recently, 17 violations were uncovered on Al Hajiyat Street in Riffa. “As part of the campaign, 17 violations were recently found.

“Many were carrying out the repair of washing machines and air-conditioners, resoling tires as well as selling iron and aluminum products after encroaching roads. These items were confiscated and action was taken against the businesses,” the municipality stated previously.

The municipality has informed the owners of these shops about the need to respect the law and conduct commercial activity in accordance with the legal procedures in force in the Kingdom. The businesses that do not comply with the warning will face further action, the officials said.