14-05-2025
Nakhal court slaps RO3,000 fine on car dealer for contract breach
Muscat – The Primary Court in Nakhal has fined a commercial establishment RO3,000 and terminated a vehicle purchase contract following a consumer complaint over a delayed and defective car delivery.
In a complaint filed by a woman with the Consumer Protection Department in Barka, she stated that she purchased a 2022 model year used vehicle from a dealer for RO14,450 with delivery scheduled for January 25, 2025. However, the dealer not only failed to deliver the vehicle on time but supplied a different model with multiple defects despite the delay.
Following the complaint, the matter was referred to the Public Prosecution and then to the court, which found three defendants guilty of two misdemeanours – failing to provide the agreed service and failing to disclose the vehicle's condition in the contract or invoice.
Each defendant was fined RO500 for each offence, resulting in a total fine of RO3,000. The court also ordered the dealer to refund the full amount paid by the consumer (RO14,450), compensate the customer an additional RO500 and cover all legal expenses.
Consumer Protection Authority reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumer rights and warned that it would continue to take strict legal action against violators. It also urged all commercial establishments to adhere to applicable laws and regulations to avoid similar legal action.
