Steps to stop illegal scrap trade

MUSCAT — In a nationwide collaboration to control the illegal trade of scrap metals in the Sultanate, the Executive Committee to Regulate Scrap Trade convened its first meeting at Mazoon Electricity Company.

A rising concern across all sectors, the Committee set an action plan to ensure the implementation of scrap trade regulations as well educate the public on its laws and procedures. To that end, specialised sub-committees have been formed in all governorates across the Sultanate to oversee the scrap businesses.

“The time has come to bring the rule of law to this business”, said Abdullah bin Said al Badri, General Manager, Mazoon Electricity and Chairman of the Executive Committee.

“Recent years have witnessed an increase in the theft and vandalism of public properties directly affecting the electricity sector in addition to the commerce, industry and service sectors and resulting in human losses as well as substantial asset damages”.

He added, “The welfare of society is the Committee’s number one priority. We are therefore presenting a united front to instil the principals of social responsibility within the general public and raise their awareness on the ramifications of illegal scarp trade.”

Public and private entities participating in the nationwide initiative will work hand in hand to ensure the implementation of the legal directives set for the trade of scrap including business licenses and infrastructure requirements.

The Royal Oman Police (ROP) and Municipality will further conduct routine inventory checks on scrap businesses while maintaining video surveillance as well as monitoring vehicle specifications.

An awareness campaign is also scheduled to launch later this year focusing on the implications of theft and vandalism on public properties and will be closely monitored by the Executive Committee through monthly progress development meetings.

The Committee encompasses representatives from the ROP, Ministry of Interior, Min- istry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ministry of Manpower, Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), The Public Prosecution Office in addition to municipality representatives from the governorates. Members also include the Authority for Electricity Regulations, Mazoon Electricity Company, Majan Electricity Company, Rural Areas Electricity Company, Muscat Electricity Distribution Company and Oman Electricity Transmission Company.