NAFDAC Seizes Counterfeit Alcohol Packaging Materials Worth N200m in Aba
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confiscated counterfeit packaging materials valued at over N200 million from five shops located in the Old Court Road Market in Aba, Abia State. The agency announced the findings in a statement on its official X account on Wednesday, October 14.
The operation was carried out following credible intelligence regarding the suspected production and distribution of counterfeit packaging materials. During the raid, NAFDAC discovered a variety of counterfeit items, including labels, corks, packs, and outer packaging materials featuring the names of several prominent brands such as Jameson, Glenfiddich, Four Cousins, Lord’s Dry Gin, Imperial Blue, Goya Oil, Chelsea, Squadron, and Seaman’s Aromatic Schnapps.
“Today, NAFDAC, acting on credible intelligence, raided five shops at Old Court Road Market, Aba, Abia State, suspected of producing and supplying counterfeit packaging materials for popular alcoholic beverages and other products,” the statement reported.
The agency’s Investigation and Enforcement operatives faced threats and resistance from traders during the operation, which complicated the evacuation of the seized materials. Additionally, the shop owners were not present at the time of the raid, prompting NAFDAC to secure the premises to prevent any tampering with the confiscated items.
To ensure the security of the sealed locations and assist in identifying the owners, NAFDAC has engaged with the market union chairman, who has committed to supporting the agency’s efforts.
This operation is part of NAFDAC’s broader initiative to combat the circulation of counterfeit products and safeguard consumers from the risks associated with fake and improperly packaged goods.
In a related incident, NAFDAC previously uncovered a suspected counterfeit production facility at the BBA Trade Fair Complex in Lagos State, where two individuals were arrested. The agency provided details of this operation in a post on its official X account on Tuesday, October 13, indicating that the suspect facility was situated in Zamfara Plaza within the complex. According to NAFDAC, the arrests were made while the suspects were allegedly revalidating energy drinks, as well as popular wine and whisky brands.
