The Fair Trading Commission (FTC) has announced that Mr Faddy Francourt has been civilly imprisoned after repeatedly failing to comply with a Fair Trading Tribunal judgment in favour of Vision Care (Seychelles) Pty Ltd.
The Commission said the action follows persistent non-payment despite several opportunities for settlement, marking the first civil imprisonment carried out through its enforcement mechanisms.
The case began after Vision Care lodged a complaint that was investigated and processed through the FTC’s procedures. A ruling required Mr Francourt to pay an outstanding sum, but he did not comply. The matter was then referred to the Fair Trading Tribunal, which issued a judgment ordering him to meet his financial obligation.
According to the FTC, Mr Francourt was offered multiple chances over an extended period to satisfy the judgment, including notices, reminders and opportunities to enter a payment arrangement. The Commission stated that no satisfactory action was taken. When all other remedies were exhausted, and the respondent remained unwilling to comply, the law allowed the FTC to seek civil imprisonment as a last resort. A committal order was subsequently executed.
The FTC stressed that civil imprisonment is an enforcement mechanism, not a punitive measure, and is permitted under Seychelles law to compel compliance with lawful judgments. The Commission said the measure highlights the seriousness with which it enforces consumer rights, noting that businesses and individuals who secure judgments are entitled to timely redress.
The Commission stated that this first civil imprisonment strengthens the integrity of its enforcement process and reaffirms its commitment to consumer protection, responsible commercial conduct and adherence to the rule of law.