The Venezuelan government's tax body has closed more than 100 McDonald's restaurants in the South American country for two days because of alleged inconsistencies in the fast-food chain's financial books.

- 11 / 10 / 2008 12:19

The Venezuelan government's tax body has closed more than 100 McDonald's restaurants in the South American country for two days because of alleged inconsistencies in the fast-food chain's financial books.

The move, which began Thursday, affects some 115 branches of McDonald's.

Jose David Cabello Rondon, the superintendent of the tax body, released a statement saying that the alleged irregularities were found in the company's purchasing and sale records and were related to taxes.

The restaurants will remain closed until Saturday, the agency said.

Alimentos Arcos Dorados, the company that manages McDonald's in Venezuela, said in a statement that it is abiding by the government's order.

It said the order was related to "formal issues affecting purchasing and sales records."

It added, "The company asserts its customary and thorough respect for and compliance with all Venezuelan laws, regulations and standards."

McDonald's restaurants in several locations remain open, Alimentos Arcos Dorados said.

Those locations include Anaco, Ciudad Ojeda, La Victoria, Maracaibo Delicias Norte, Maracaibo Galerias, Maracaibo Sambil, Margarita Sambil, San Cristobal Sambil, San Juan de los Morros and Valera, it said.