Expired Goods Nabbed: Deputy Minister Cracks Down

By: Elizabeth A Kaine

Deputy Trade Minister Fatmata Kargbo led a surprise inspection of shops and supermarkets in the Western Area yesterday, Thursday, September 4th, 2024, targeting expired and substandard products. Accompanied by officials from the National Consumer Protection Commission and Standards Bureaus, the operation aimed to protect consumer interests and ensure public safety.

The initiative aligns with President Bio’s commitment to safeguard citizens from consuming harmful products, leading to the establishment of the National Consumer Protection Commission in 2020. During the inspection, several expired products were discovered at a shop on Kroo Town Road, resulting in the confiscation of goods and immediate closure of the premises pending further action under the Consumer Protection Act of 2020.

Deputy Minister Kargbo expressed concern over the sale of expired goods, emphasizing the potential harm to consumers, particularly children. She urged citizens to be vigilant when purchasing products, checking expiration dates, and reporting any concerns to the NCPC. The Deputy Minister stressed that this operation is part of an ongoing effort to hold accountable businesses engaging in the sale of expired goods.