NAFDAC Discovers Lagos Building Stockpiling Empty Alcohol Bottles for Suspected Counterfeit Production.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a residential building in Lagos State allegedly used to store empty alcoholic beverage bottles suspected of being supplied to counterfeit drink producers.
The agency’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate discovered more than 100 sacks of empty bottles at a property located at 322B Meiran Road, Agbado Oke Odo, Lagos State, following intelligence about the suspected activity.
According to reports, the bottles came in different sizes and included labels associated with alcoholic beverage brands such as Action Bitter and Royal Circle Premium Whiskey.
Assistant Director of NAFDAC’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate, Kunle Ojo, said operatives found the bottles stacked and covered with tarpaulins when they arrived at the location.
The agency reportedly destroyed the recovered bottles to prevent their potential reuse in the production and distribution of counterfeit alcoholic beverages.
Ojo expressed concern about the use of residential buildings for activities that could threaten public health. He urged Nigerians to report suspicious operations to the nearest NAFDAC office to support efforts to combat counterfeit products.
Public Health Concerns
The discovery highlights the risks associated with counterfeit alcoholic beverages, which may be produced under unsafe conditions, improperly packaged or falsely labelled.
The reuse of branded bottles can make it difficult for consumers to distinguish genuine products from counterfeits, potentially exposing them to drinks of unknown composition and safety.
NAFDAC has continued to conduct enforcement operations against suspected counterfeit and substandard products as part of its responsibility to protect consumers and ensure the safety of regulated goods in Nigeria.
The agency has urged members of the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with regulatory authorities by reporting suspected illegal manufacturing, repackaging and distribution .