Rs7.87m fines imposed in anti-profiteering operation in Punjab

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 30th Mar, 2026) Price control magistrates across Punjab have arrested 1,402 individuals, registered 48 cases, and imposed fines exceeding Rs7.87 million during a four-day crackdown on profiteering and hoarding, conducting raids at more than 361,000 locations.

Secretary Food Safety and Consumer Protection Dr.Kiran Khurshid, in a statement on Monday said that strict action was taken against over 19,000 violators involved in overcharging essential commodities, as the government intensified efforts on the directives of the Chief Minister Punjab.

She said authorities were utilizing all available resources to ensure the availability of essential food items at affordable prices, with special focus on monitoring frequently used commodities.

Providing details,she said over 18,000 inspections were carried out to enforce notified rates of broiler chicken,leading to action against 1489 butchers,five cases,96 arrests and fines exceeding Rs.

700,000.

In the case of pulses, more than 28,500 locations were checked,resulting in 1501 cases,seven FIRs, 277 arrests and fines of Rs.366,000.

She added that during inspections of over 13,900 points for ghee and cooking oil,action was taken against 454 violators, with 109 arrests and fines exceeding Rs.132,000.

Furthermore, action against overcharging of roti led to proceedings against more than 4000 naanbais and hotel owners, with six cases,194 arrests and fines amounting to Rs.1.042 million.

Dr.Kiran Khurshid said that the crackdown against profiteers and hoarders will continue to protect consumers and ensure price stability across the province.