NAFDAC Busts Counterfeit Alcohol Cartel in Lagos, Seizes Products Worth ₦2bn
NAFDAC Busts Counterfeit Alcohol Cartel in Lagos, Seizes Products Worth ₦2bn
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered an alleged large-scale counterfeit alcoholic beverage operation at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, seizing products valued at more than ₦2 billion.
The agency said its Investigation and Enforcement Directorate carried out the raid on Tuesday, October 13, following credible intelligence that led operatives to more than 20 illegal stores allegedly used for counterfeiting and other unlawful activities.
According to NAFDAC, the operation exposed an extensive counterfeiting network operating from makeshift stores within the complex.
In a statement, the agency said its operatives discovered illegal activities involving the production of counterfeit alcoholic beverages, the manipulation of expired and unsafe drinks for resale, and the storage of prohibited imported products.
The statement read: “Operatives from NAFDAC’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate raided the International Trade Fair Complex in Lagos, uncovering a large-scale counterfeit alcoholic beverage operation concealed within makeshift parking stores on the premises.
“The enforcement action was executed on the basis of credible intelligence and resulted in the discovery of more than 20 illegal stores engaged in criminal operations within the complex.”
The agency further disclosed that some suspects were allegedly caught blending and counterfeiting popular alcoholic beverage brands, while others were involved in revalidating expired and unsafe drinks for resale.
NAFDAC also reported the discovery of stockpiles of banned imported products during the operation.
Two suspects were arrested in connection with the alleged illegal activities, while the value of the seized products was estimated at more than ₦2 billion.
The agency warned members of the public against the consumption and sale of counterfeit, expired or unsafe alcoholic beverages, noting the potential risks such products pose to public health.
It urged consumers and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities involving the production, revalidation, distribution or sale of regulated products to the appropriate authorities.
