NAFDAC uncovers Lagos depot storing bottles for counterfeit drinks

By Anthonia Okonkwo

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a residential building in Agbado-Oke Odo, Lagos State, where large quantities of empty alcoholic beverage bottles were allegedly stored for suspected use in counterfeiting popular brands.

The discovery was made by the agency’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate at 322B Meiran Road, Agbado-Oke Odo, following intelligence reports about suspicious activities at the property.

Speaking during the operation, NAFDAC Assistant Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Kunle Ojo, said officials found large quantities of empty bottles at the secluded residential building, with some stored under tarpaulins.

According to Ojo, the bottles were sorted and packed separately according to their brands. They included Action Bitters, Hennessy, Royal Circle Premium Whisky and Smirnoff, among others.

He explained that the suspected operation involved washing empty bottles and supplying them to individuals believed to be involved in counterfeiting, who could reuse the containers to package illicit alcoholic beverages.

Furthermore, more than 100 sacks of empty bottles were reportedly discovered at the site. During the operation, NAFDAC officials were also seen destroying some of the bottles to prevent their suspected reuse in producing counterfeit alcoholic drinks.

Ojo reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting public health and tackling the production and distribution of counterfeit products. He stressed the importance of preventing the circulation of illicit alcoholic beverages that could pose risks to consumers.

He urged Nigerians to report suspicious activities in their communities to the nearest NAFDAC office, noting that public cooperation was essential to the agency’s efforts to curb counterfeiting and protect consumers.