THE owners and operators of a commercial establishment in the Capital Governorate are facing the wrath of the law for allegedly running an illegal promotional lottery scheme from their premises.
The shop, selling mobile phones, electronics and other products, had two machines that apparently printed out tickets for customers.
The ‘daily lottery’ scheme was uncovered during a routine inspection by the Industry and Commerce Ministry’s Inspection Directorate.
“The shop had a couple of machines that printed illegal lottery tickets for customers,” the ministry said. “One of the workers would punch in details into the machine and it would print a raffle coupon, which contained two sets of six digits.
“If the customer’s number matched with the numbers on a corresponding board, they ended up winning cash prizes.
“There were two types of draws, one of them had prizes ranging from BD5 to BD12, while another more ‘lucrative’ draw allegedly had prizes ranging from BD390 all the way to BD10,300.”
Ministry officials have warned that such activities are illegal. Those responsible for running unlicensed raffles, draws or lotteries can face legal action.
Legal measures are currently underway against the shop and the shop owner allegedly involved in the current case.
Inspectors have sent a warning to owners of all commercial establishments across the kingdom to ensure that they comply with established rules and regulations, and that legal consequences await violators.
Although stores and businesses can stage promotional and prize-giving initiatives, laws ensure they are supervised, fair and transparent. There are strict rules to follow.
Meanwhile, a number of other violations have been recorded in the Northern Governorate. Inspectors visited a shop that was authorised to sell car parts and discovered that it was also engaged in activities such as repairs and maintenance without proper licensing or authorisation, and another premises had an old shopfront sign so faded it was barely legible. Owners of commercial establishments have been instructed to ensure that all information, including the shop’s name, CR number and phone number, remain clearly visible in front of stores.
l The authorities are urging people across the country to report any violations, abandoned shops or suspicious activities by contacting the ministry, either online at sijilat.com or via email at inspection@moic.gov.bh. They can also contact the authorities directly, either by calling the ministry on 17111346 or 17111252, or on the hotline 80008001, or on WhatsApp, 17111225. Additionally, incidents can be recorded on the government’s Suggestions and Complaints System, Tawasul.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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