Ministry foils mattress scam in Makkah

The Saudi Ministry of Commerce’s inspection teams in Makkah foiled an illegal operation selling used mattresses from containers and dumps as new.

Old mattresses were repackaged and disguised with new covers to trick consumers. In collaboration with security authorities, the ministry shut the facility situated east of Makkah. Additionally, inspection teams confiscated a loaded truck and handed over the individuals involved for punishment under the anti-commercial fraud system.

Seized items included 1,921 mattresses, 2,700 meters of raw fabric and mattress covers, and 5 tonnes of wood, which were all destroyed. In addition, sewing machines and other tools were seized.

The Ministry of Commerce reiterated its commitment to combating commercial fraud and enforcing legal penalties against violators. The system stipulates penalties of up to three years’ imprisonment, fines of up to SR1 million, or both, as well as publicizing the names of violators.