The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has dismantled a makeshift factory at the Oke Arin market in Lagos Island, where counterfeit alcoholic beverages were being illicitly produced. The operation resulted in the arrest of three suspects and the seizure of counterfeit products worth over ₦180 million.
In a statement released on Tuesday, NAFDAC revealed that the raid was carried out following a complaint about illegal alcohol production in the area. The agency recovered fake versions of popular alcoholic brands, empty bottles, and packaging materials during the operation.
The main suspect, identified as Mr. Tochukwu Henry, admitted to refilling bottles labeled as Rémy Martin with ST-Rémy contents. He also confessed to employing two individuals to assist him in the illicit production.
NAFDAC stated, “Acting on a complaint, we raided a makeshift factory in Oke Arin market, Lagos Island, where counterfeit alcoholic beverages were being produced. Three men were apprehended, and various counterfeit products, including fake versions of popular alcoholic brands, were seized. These items have an estimated value exceeding ₦180 million.”
The suspects are currently in custody, and further investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the operation.
NAFDAC has urged members of the public to remain vigilant, particularly during the festive season, when counterfeit products often flood the market. The agency advised consumers to report any suspicious activities or products to the nearest NAFDAC office to help curb the spread of counterfeit goods.
