NAFDAC discovers suspected counterfeit alcohol bottle store in Lagos
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has seized over 100 sacks of empty alcoholic beverage bottles from a residential property in Lagos, amid suspicions that the materials are being collected for the production of counterfeit drinks.
The bottles were discovered during an enforcement operation at a site located at 322B Meiran Road, Agbado Oke-Odo, conducted by the agency’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate. NAFDAC officials reported that the confiscated bottles have been destroyed to prevent their potential reuse in packaging fraudulent alcoholic beverages.
Kunle Ojo, an assistant director within the directorate, shared details of the operation in a video released by the agency on Friday. He stated that the action was initiated following intelligence regarding questionable activities at the location.
According to Ojo, the building in question is situated in a secluded residential area, where numerous materials, including empty alcoholic beverage bottles obscured by tarpaulins, were found. The bottles varied in size, with some bearing labels from brands such as Action Bitter and Royal Circle Premium Whiskey.
Investigators suspect that the bottles were amassed for distribution to individuals involved in the production of counterfeit alcoholic drinks. Ojo explained that the suspected operation involved collecting and supplying empty branded containers to counterfeiter, who could refill them with different products and sell them as authentic alcoholic beverages.
This discovery has heightened concerns about the health risks associated with counterfeit alcohol, especially when fake products are packaged in containers labeled with recognized brands. Such packaging can complicate consumer efforts to discern imitation products from genuine drinks.
NAFDAC condemned the alleged utilization of a residential building for these suspected activities, emphasizing that the enforcement operation is part of its ongoing initiative to protect public health and fight against the manufacture and distribution of counterfeit goods.
The agency has urged the public to report any suspicious activities in their communities to the nearest NAFDAC office, highlighting that local input can aid enforcement officials in identifying and dismantling suspected counterfeiting operations.
