Two Vicksburg hotel operators have been arrested and charged with price gouging during a state of emergency. They allegedly raised their room prices to take advantage of evacuees seeking shelter.
The Attorney General's office and authorities from Warren County and Vicksburg busted 56-year-old Devenora V. Patel. Hemel Ramesh Surati, 26, was also arrested last night at the Battlefield Inn in Vicksburg.
Attorney General Jim Hood said tips came in from concerned citizens. Patel and Surati are accused of charging more than their usual profit margin for hotel rooms. Bond is set at $1500 each.
Meanwhile, another accused price gouger has made bond in Franklin County according to the Sheriff. 51 year old Kuldip Singh of Natchez was arrested at the Roxie Truck Stop. Authorities say within 48 hours gas skyrocketed from $3.59 a gallon to $3.99. And the problem hit consumers pocketbooks right here in the Capitol city.
50-year-old Rajinder Singh was also arrested on the same charges. Investigators found prices illegally hiked for fuel at his Bullard Street, Fuel Time Gas Station.
To report possible price gouging, contact the Attorney Generals office, MEMA or the Secretary Of States Office.
WLBT 3 - Fox 40
