An ice factory in Yanbu, in the western region, was closed down after sleuths from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry swooped down to find the firm in violations of basic rules.

Field inspection teams from the ministry had discovered rusted and old equipment being used in the production operations in the factory, Twasul online paper said.

At least 3,700 ice shields were seized during the raid owing to their risk of being a health hazard. The factory owners were served summons for further investigation, the paper said.

Ice shields seized were immediately banned from distribution after inspectors noted contamination in the water used, the paper quoted the ministry saying in a statement.

The inspection teams, the ministry reportedly says, will continue to tour through markets, food warehouses, shops and commercial establishments to ensure that they meet health specifications and safety standards. The campaigns will monitor fraudulent practices and halt the sale and marketing of rotten and expired products.

The ministry has made it clear it will not tolerate violators and those involved in fraudulent practices which put the health and safety of consumers at risk.

The ministry calls on all consumers to report complaints or violations to the ministry’s Report Center at (800 124 1616).