The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered and dismantled two illegal alcoholic drink production outfits in Lagos, seizing over 1,800 cartons of counterfeit products valued at about ₦350 million.
The enforcement, carried out by the agency’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate following credible intelligence, exposed a network involved in the adulteration and counterfeiting of popular alcoholic beverage brands.
At Zamfara Plaza, Trade Fair Complex, Lagos, NAFDAC operatives raided Shop B018 and adjoining spaces identified as ATT/ZAM/15, 18, 20 and 21, where illicit production activities were ongoing.
The team discovered mini plastic mixing tanks, improvised filtration systems, cartons of empty bottles bearing intact labels, corks and other packaging materials, alongside large quantities of already produced adulterated drinks.
More than 1,200 cartons of empty and filled bottles, estimated at ₦300 million, were confiscated and evacuated from the site.
In a related operation, the agency uncovered another illegal production outlet on Lagos Island allegedly operated by one Mr Chidera Kolius Chukwuka. The facility was reportedly used to counterfeit multiple alcoholic brands using similar crude production methods.
Investigations further revealed that the suspect operated a retail outlet at 30, Apongbon Road, Lagos Island, where the fake products were sold to unsuspecting consumers at unusually low prices.
NAFDAC said over 600 cartons of adulterated and counterfeit drinks, valued at about ₦50 million, were recovered from the location.
In total, more than 1,800 cartons of fake alcoholic beverages were seized in the combined operations, with an estimated street value of ₦350 million.
The agency warned that consumption of adulterated alcoholic drinks poses serious health risks, including organ damage, poisoning and possible death.
It reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health and vowed to prosecute individuals and groups involved in the production and distribution of substandard and counterfeit products.
NAFDAC also urged members of the public to purchase alcoholic beverages only from authorised and reputable outlets, and to report suspicious activities or unwholesome products to the nearest NAFDAC office or via its toll-free line, 0800-1-NAFDAC (0800-1-623322).
