20 bars closed down in Bertoua

Rumors of a possible increase in prices of alcoholic beverages on the 1st of January, spread like wildfire in the eastern region. According to reports, some managers of drinking bars in Bertoua decided to increase the price of beer well before the 1st of January.

Since December 30, indeed, these rumored pricing system had taken effect in some bars. "Others hoarded their drinks to deliberately created scarcity around the same time," said Mr. Aboubakary, head of Department of the regional brigade of control and repression of fraud to the regional delegation of the Ministry of Commerce (Mincommerce) in the East.

These bar managers were said to have brought out their hoarded goods after the new year to resell them at exorbitant prices. The 65cl beer bottle was thus sold at 600 F or more, instead of the usual 500 F. The increase was also noticeable in soft drinks.

The regional delegation of Mincommerce for Eastern decided to apprehend those involved in this fraudulent activity that was gaining grounds in the vicinity. Multiple raids were immediately launched after a circular from the Minister of Trade, was signed December 30. Agents of repression accompanied by the police launched a raid on Wednesday, leading to the closure of about 20 bars in Bertoua.

The regional delegate from the Ministry of Trade, Léopold Essola Ava noted that "a few days after the first raids, sanctions would be meted out to culprits. Hence, the owners of the closed bars have been fined.

Léopold Essola Ava warned that, this was not going to be the last, as similar operations will be carried out in neigbouring towns, Abong-Mbang, Batouri and Yokadouma.