The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has successfully thwarted the operations of counterfeiters engaged in the illicit production of a range of beverages, including wines, soft drinks, and consumables in the bustling Eziukwu Market, commonly known as Cemetery Market, in Aba, Abia State.
This significant revelation came to light as the agency, in a statement posted on its website yesterday, detailed its meticulous efforts over several weeks to gather intelligence and collate data on the nefarious activities of these merchants of counterfeit products.
The operation resulted in the destruction of over 1,500 cartons of fake and substandard items, with an estimated street value exceeding N750 million. Additionally, 300 cartons were safely evacuated to the NAFDAC warehouse.
Ten individuals were apprehended at the scene of the crime upon the agency’s arrival and will face charges in court following a thorough investigation, according to NAFDAC.
The agency disclosed that it conducted raids on more than 240 shops, which had been transformed into makeshift factories for the production and marketing of harmful products.
These makeshift factories, according to NAFDAC, were found to be operating under deplorable conditions, utilizing water from unhygienic sources, harmful chemicals, saccharin, coloring agents, dirty recycled bottles, and cloned packaging materials from reputable brands.
The counterfeiters were engaged in various illegal activities, including the production of adulterated products imitating popular brands such as Seaman Schnapps, Hennessy, Four Cousins, Carlo Rossi, Jenney, Chelsea London Dry Gin, Schnapp Dry Gin, McDowells, Black Labels, Gordons, Martell, Campari, Smirnoff Ice, Eva Non-Alcoholic Drink, Evra Non-Alcoholic Drink, Cartel, and others.
A disturbing revelation by NAFDAC exposed the date revalidation of expired products like Peak milk, Powdered milk, Ketchups, Yoghurt, Coca Cola products, and the packaging of fake and substandard items.
These deceitful products were then introduced into the market, deceiving unsuspecting consumers.
Given the alarming scale of illicit activities in this section of the market, NAFDAC found it necessary to temporarily shut down the entire market for thorough regulatory activities.
The closure remained in effect until an agreement was reached with all stakeholders, who pledged not to permit the market to be used for such illicit practices in the future.
In light of these developments, NAFDAC called on Nigerians to maintain vigilance and encouraged consumers to scrutinize branded drinks to differentiate between genuine products and counterfeits before consumption.
This operation represents a significant stride in the ongoing efforts to safeguard public health and eradicate the production and distribution of fake and harmful products within the country.
