NAFDAC says it seized counterfeit alcoholic beverages worth over ₦2bn and arrested two suspects after uncovering more than 20 illegal stores at Lagos Trade Fair Complex
NAFDAC Raids Lagos Trade Fair Complex, Seizes Fake Alcohol Worth Over ₦2bn
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered an alleged counterfeit alcoholic beverage operation at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, seizing products valued at more than ₦2 billion and arresting two suspects.
The operation, conducted by operatives of the agency’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate, led to the discovery of more than 20 illegal stores allegedly used for counterfeiting, revalidating expired drinks and storing unsafe alcoholic beverages.
NAFDAC said the raid followed credible intelligence about illicit activities within the complex, where makeshift parking stores had allegedly been converted into production and storage centres for counterfeit drinks.
According to the agency, its operatives discovered individuals allegedly blending counterfeit versions of popular alcoholic beverage brands, revalidating expired and unsafe drinks for resale, and stockpiling banned imported products.
The agency said the products recovered and evacuated from the locations were valued at over ₦2 billion, while two suspects were arrested in connection with the alleged activities.
The discovery has renewed concerns about the circulation of counterfeit alcoholic beverages in Nigeria and the potential health risks to consumers who may unknowingly purchase and consume unsafe products.
The alleged revalidation of expired drinks is particularly concerning because it could expose consumers to beverages whose safety and quality can no longer be assured. Counterfeit products can also undermine legitimate manufacturers and bypass regulatory controls designed to protect public health.
NAFDAC said the enforcement operation formed part of its ongoing efforts to curb the manufacture, distribution and sale of counterfeit, unregistered and substandard regulated products across the country.
The agency urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspicious manufacturing, storage, revalidation and sales activities to the appropriate authorities.
It provided its complaints line, 0800-1-NAFDAC (0800-1-623322), for members of the public to report suspected violations and provide information that could assist enforcement operations.
NAFDAC also called on consumers to support its efforts by sharing credible information about suspected illegal operators, stressing the importance of public cooperation in preventing unsafe products from reaching the market.
The latest operation highlights the challenges facing regulatory authorities as they work to detect illicit activities concealed within commercial premises and disrupt the distribution networks supplying counterfeit products.
However, the agency’s announcement, as provided, did not identify the two arrested suspects or disclose whether formal charges had been filed against them.
NAFDAC has repeatedly warned against the production and sale of counterfeit and substandard regulated products, urging consumers and businesses to comply with applicable safety standards and report suspected violations.
