Coronavirus: Air fresheners falsely labelled as sanitisers seized in Sharjah

Authorities said those seeking to profit from the coronavirus pandemic will face heavy fines and possible prosecution

SHARJAH, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES. 26 MARCH 2020. Sharjah Municipal staff spray and disinfect the sidewalk along the Al Muntazah Str area of Sharjah near the Ajman border. . (Photo: Antonie Robertson/The National) Journalist: None. Section: National.

Rogue traders who tried to dupe customers into buying air fresheners labelled as sanitiser products are to face hefty fines after being caught out by authorities in Sharjah.

Sharjah Economic Development Department seized the counterfeit goods during a series of inspections held across the emirate.

Officials said they were determined to clamp down on offenders exploiting the safety concerns of the public amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Drive-thru coronavirus disease (COVID-19) testing at a screening centre in Bahrain

A member of medical staff carries a swab test at a drive-thru testing facility at Bahrain Exhibition Center, in Manama, Bahrain. Reuters

Outlets across the Emirates have recorded a surge in sales of hygiene products – such as hand sanitisers – in recent weeks as residents seek to protect themselves against possible infection.

The fake goods were confiscated and withdrawn from sale.

The SEDD said those caught breaching regulations would face heavy fines and could be referred to public prosecution for further punishment.

Sultan Abdullah bin Hadda Al Suwaidi, chairman of SEDD, said the authority would continue to work to protect the public from unscrupulous businesses and individuals seeking to achieve “material gain” during a time of great difficulty for so many.

Members of the public who spot breaches of consumer regulations were urged to contact SEDD on 800 80000 or visit  www.shjconsumer.ae to lodge a complaint.