The National Institute for the Protection of Consumer Rights (Pro Consumidor), working alongside the Specialized Fuel Control Corps (CECCOM) and the Public Prosecutor’s Office, has destroyed nearly 20 tons of expired, adulterated and unsafe food products seized during an investigation into an alleged consumer fraud operation in the province of San Cristóbal.
According to Pro Consumidor Executive Director Eddy Alcántara, the products had been relabeled or had their expiration dates fraudulently altered before being prepared for resale, creating a serious risk to public health.
Products Permanently Removed From the Market
Alcántara said the destruction of the seized merchandise marked the final stage of an enforcement process that began with inspections and raids carried out by the three institutions at several warehouses in San Cristóbal. He emphasized that eliminating the products ensures they can never re-enter the marketplace.
The destroyed goods included widely consumed food products, perishable items and other everyday consumer goods that had allegedly been manipulated to appear safe for sale, misleading consumers about their condition.
“With this destruction, we conclude a process that began with inspections and operations at these warehouses. We have eliminated any possibility that these products could return to the market and continue endangering public health,” Alcántara said.
Investigation Continues
Authorities reported that the warehouse owner, Randy García, was arrested following the operation, formally charged and is currently being held under a court-ordered pretrial measure while prosecutors continue investigating the scope of the alleged fraudulent operation and whether additional individuals may be involved.
Alcántara described the destruction of the seized products as an important step in combating commercial fraud and protecting consumers from unsafe goods.
Warning to Businesses Engaging in Fraud
The Pro Consumidor director said the operation demonstrated the effectiveness of the coordinated efforts between consumer protection authorities, CECCOM and the justice system.
He warned that businesses or individuals seeking to profit by altering products or violating consumer rights will face legal consequences.
“We hope this case serves as a warning to anyone attempting to profit through product manipulation and violations of consumer rights. We will not tolerate practices that threaten public health or responsible commerce,” Alcántara said.
He added that Pro Consumidor will continue strengthening inspections and market surveillance across the Dominican Republic to detect and sanction commercial practices that pose risks to consumers.