NAFDAC Arrests Two Suspects as Fake Drinks Worth Over ₦2 Billion Are Seized in Lagos.

NAFDAC Arrests Two Suspects as Fake Drinks Worth Over ₦2 Billion Are Seized in Lagos.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a suspected large-scale counterfeit beverage operation in Lagos State, arresting two suspects and seizing products valued at more than ₦2 billion.

The operation took place on Tuesday, October 13, at Zamfara Plaza, within the BBA Trade Fair Complex along the Badagry Expressway in Ojo, Lagos. According to NAFDAC, its Investigation and Enforcement Directorate conducted the raid following intelligence gathering on suspected illegal beverage production and distribution activities.

In a statement reported by Channels Television and other Nigerian media outlets, the agency disclosed that its operatives discovered more than 20 illegal stores allegedly involved in counterfeit beverage production, the repackaging of expired drinks and the storage of prohibited imported products.

The suspects were reportedly arrested while allegedly blending counterfeit alcoholic beverages and revalidating  expired or unsafe drinks for resale. The seized products and materials were subsequently evacuated from the premises for further investigation and regulatory action.

Expired Drinks Allegedly Prepared for Resale

NAFDAC said the suspected operation involved the revalidation of expired beverages, including energy drinks, wines and whisky brands. Such practices can expose consumers to products whose safety, quality and contents have not been verified.

Reports from the operation indicated that officials discovered beverage bottles, labels, bottle caps, packaging materials, chemicals and equipment allegedly used to alter or repackage products.

The agency’s findings suggest that the operation extended beyond a single storage location, with more than 20 suspected illegal stores identified within the complex.

The identities of the two suspects were reported by some Nigerian media outlets as Chibuzor Okafor and William John. However, the allegations against them have not been established by a court of law.

NAFDAC said the investigation would help establish the sources of the products, identify those involved in the alleged activities and determine the appropriate legal and regulatory action.

NAFDAC Warns of Public Health Risks

The circulation of counterfeit and improperly repackaged beverages poses a significant public health concern in Nigeria. Consumers may be unable to determine whether a product has expired, been contaminated or had its contents altered when it is sold in packaging that resembles a genuine brand.

Expired or falsified beverages may expose consumers to unsafe substances, contamination and other health risks. Repackaging a product does not restore its safety or quality.

NAFDAC has therefore urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspected cases of illegal beverage production, product revalidation and the sale of prohibited or unsafe regulated products.

The agency provided its official complaints line, 0800-1-NAFDAC (0800-1-623322), for members of the public seeking to report suspicious activities.

The latest enforcement operation forms part of the agency’s wider efforts to tackle counterfeit products and strengthen consumer protection, particularly ahead of the festive season, when demand for alcoholic and other beverages typically increases.

Consumer Vigilance Remains Essential

The seizure highlights the importance of stronger regulatory oversight and public awareness in Nigeria’s beverage market. While enforcement operations can disrupt suspected illegal activities, sustained monitoring of production facilities, distribution networks and retail outlets remains necessary to prevent unsafe products from reaching consumers.

Consumers are advised to purchase beverages from reputable outlets, inspect packaging and expiry dates, and avoid products with suspicious seals, damaged labels or signs of tampering.

However, packaging alone cannot guarantee authenticity. Suspected counterfeit products should be reported to the relevant authorities rather than handled or consumed.

As investigations continue, the case underscores the need to hold those responsible for proven violations accountable while ensuring that regulatory enforcement protects public health and strengthens confidence in Nigeria’s consumer goods market.