Over 150 shopkeepers arrested for profiteering.

TAXILA -- As many as 154 shopkeepers have so far been arrested this month from various parts of Attock during a crackdown against illegal profiteers.

Fines amounting to over Rs1.4 million were imposed on shopkeepers violating the official list.

Deputy Commissioner Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema, while briefing journalists on Monday, said price magistrates as well as teams of the Punjab Industries, Prices, Weights and Measures (IPWM) carried out 12,284 raids in rural and urban areas.

He said during the crackdown, fines amounting to Rs1,451,000 were imposed on 243 shopkeepers who were selling items at exorbitant rates, adding that most measures in relation to illegal profiteering and hoarding in the province were taken in Attock district.

Responding to a question, he said the operation against profiteers would continue till the sale of essential items was ensured according to the officially approved price list.

'Sale of basic commodities, especially flour at exorbitant prices, will not be tolerated and action will be taken against those responsible for negligence and carelessness,' Mr Cheema said, adding that the district administration took action to keep prices of commodities under control. Mr Cheema has asked people to pay the prices of daily-use items according to the official price list set by the local administration.

He said all assistant commissioners have been directed to ensure availability of ample quantities of flour in the market and sale of it at a fixed price.

Officers concerned have been directed to expedite the campaign against profiteers and take strict action whereas...