RIYADH: Two expatriates have been arrested for storing expired infant food items in an unlicensed store in Riyadh.

Inspectors from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI) seized more than 6,000 expired Infant Formula Cans, which were kept for sales distribution in the city.

The MCI inspectors arrested the owner of the premises where the expired goods were found and summoned the sponsors of the expatriates for questioning.

The detection was made in the Sharaff district of Hair province when the inspectors noticed that a large quantity of infant food items were being loaded in large trucks for distribution among retail outlets in the capital.

The inspectors found the date of expiry was erased from the cans to mislead the customers. The raids were conducted with the assistance of regional health directorate officials and security forces.

The ministry said it will continue to inspect food stores and commercial and industrial entities to put an end to fraudulent practices.

Moreover, it will penalize violators by announcing their names, among other measures, the MCI said.

The MCI has urged consumers to lodge complaints or suggestions through the toll free number 1900.