RIYADH: In a crackdown against violation of rules and regulations by shops, the Riyadh Municipality closed down 12 facilities and issued notices to 30 others recently.

The 12 shops were shut because of violations like lack of license to operate, and 30 stores were issued notices on rules implementation.

Earlier, the municipality also took action against erring shops and confiscated 45 large barrels and three drums of pickles.

The municipality officials said that 824 shopkeepers had also been reported in Riyadh for violations like storing and selling goods under unsavory conditions and posing public health hazards. A team of field inspectors booked these offending shops, which led to the closure of 28 shops while 102 workers were arrested for violation of hygiene rules.

The municipality had organized 327 field inspections in various localities to monitor conditions of the shops in terms of public health and hygiene.

A report revealed that a number of establishments north of Riyadh and Malaz district had to be shut down for operating under unhygienic conditions. Some others in Naseem and Batha were also closed.

The inspectors also confiscated 1,104.5 kg. of meat of unknown origin, and fish and poultry found risky for human consumption, in addition to 102 pieces of pots and tools.

Expatriates selling food on the street were also reported and the teams of inspectors seized over 4,300 cartons of fruits and vegetables, which were handed over to charity organizations.