Customers Alleging Potential Fraudulent Practices and Delayed Deliveries Seek MoIP’s Intervention
Al-Haj Automotive, the exclusive distributor of Proton vehicles in Pakistan, is under intense scrutiny from disgruntled customers due to prolonged delays in delivering booked vehicles. This issue has escalated to the point where an anonymous customer has taken the matter to the Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Industries and Production (MoIP), raising concerns about potential fraudulent activities.
Booking Delays and Price Escalation
The controversy centers around a customer’s experience with Al-Haj Automotive. Having initially booked a Proton X70 in January 2022 at a cost of Rs. 4.97 million, the customer was promised a delivery date of September 2022. However, as September came and went, no updates were provided by the dealership regarding the delay.
In October 2022, the customer received a letter from the dealership stating that the vehicle would be delivered within 30 days, albeit at an inflated price of Rs. 7.17 million – an astounding increase of Rs. 2.2 million from the original booking amount. Despite the unexpected price surge and prolonged waiting, the customer made a full payment by December 2022, receiving a receipt indicating no outstanding balance.
Unresolved Concerns and Allegations
Despite making the payment, the customer has yet to receive the vehicle. Correspondence from Al-Haj Automotive cited import restrictions leading to difficulties in acquiring vehicle assembly kits. A tentative delivery date for May 2023 was proposed; however, as of now, no resolution has been reached. This situation has affected not only the anonymous customer but numerous others as well.
The customer’s concerns extend beyond just delayed deliveries. Allegations have been made regarding the lack of transparency in Al-Haj Automotive’s practices, raising suspicions of a possible Ponzi scheme that could jeopardize customers’ investments. The aggrieved customer has formally requested the MoIP to launch a thorough investigation and initiate legal action against the company. Additionally, they have urged the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to intervene and hold both the company owners and dealers accountable for the distress customers are experiencing.
Legal action has also been taken against Proton’s official dealership, with customers alleging unresponsiveness to their booking queries. Furthermore, instances of bounced refund cheques issued by the dealership have further exacerbated the situation.
Awaiting Resolution
As the dispute between customers and Al-Haj Automotive continues to escalate, the Ministry of Industries and Production’s intervention is eagerly awaited. The allegations of potential fraudulent practices and the distress caused to customers underscore the urgency of a thorough investigation into the matter.
