KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) says it has secured over $24.72-million in refunds and compensation on behalf of aggrieved consumers during the 2017/18 financial year.

The top three complaint categories, which yielded the most monetary compensation, were: automotive $11.7 million; electrical equipment and appliances $3.9 million and other services $3.7 million.

According to a release from the commission, the sum was recovered during the commission’s resolution of 1,454 cases of the 1,704 handled during the period which translates to a resolution rate of 85.32 per cent.

The commission said it also handled 730 requests for advice and information, which represent an increase of 39 per cent over the previous period when 525 requests were facilitated.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer at the CAC, Dolsie Allen, encouraged consumers to be vigilant when purchasing goods and services in the marketplace.

“Our database has consistently shown that the electrical equipment and appliances category continues to top the list as the area that consumers complain the most about,” she said.

She added that the automotive category has the largest refunds and compensation secured on behalf of consumers.

“I am therefore urging consumers to do their due diligence by ensuring that items purchased are in good working order before they leave the store and if this is not possible, as soon as a fault has been detected, report it to the vendor.

“When purchasing expensive items like automobiles, it is imperative that a certified mechanic examines the vehicle,” noting that, “Above all else, consumers must demand their receipt and warranty.”