NAFDAC Uncovers ₦2bn Counterfeit Alcohol Operation In Trade Fair

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a large-scale counterfeit alcoholic beverage operation at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, seizing products valued at over ₦2 billion.

The agency also arrested two suspects following a raid by operatives of its Investigation and Enforcement (I&E) Directorate, which led to the discovery of more than 20 illegal stores allegedly used for counterfeiting and other unlawful activities within the complex.

According to NAFDAC, the operation was carried out on the basis of credible intelligence and uncovered makeshift parking stores allegedly converted into centres for the production, revalidation and storage of unsafe alcoholic beverages.

The agency said its operatives discovered suspects allegedly blending and counterfeiting popular alcoholic beverage brands, revalidating expired and unsafe drinks for resale, and stockpiling banned imported products.

The raid forms part of the agency’s enforcement efforts to combat the circulation of counterfeit and potentially dangerous products in the Nigerian market.

In a statement announcing the operation, NAFDAC said the enforcement team uncovered the illegal activities during its intervention at the complex.

The agency disclosed that the products seized and evacuated from the locations were valued at more than ₦2 billion, while two suspects were apprehended in connection with the operation.

The discovery raises fresh concerns about the circulation of counterfeit alcoholic beverages and the potential risks to consumers who may unknowingly purchase and consume such products.

The alleged revalidation of expired and unsafe drinks is particularly concerning, as consumers may be exposed to products whose safety and quality can no longer be guaranteed.

Counterfeit alcoholic beverages can also undermine legitimate manufacturers, distort competition and expose unsuspecting consumers to products that have not met the required regulatory standards.

NAFDAC urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious manufacturing, revalidation or sales activities to the agency.

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

It called on Nigerians to support its enforcement efforts by providing credible information that could help identify illegal operators and prevent unsafe products from reaching consumers.

The agency’s latest operation underscores the challenges confronting regulatory authorities in tackling the production and distribution of counterfeit goods, particularly where illicit activities are concealed within commercial premises.

Further details about the identities of the arrested suspects and possible charges were not provided in the information released by the agency.

NAFDAC has continued to warn against the manufacture, distribution and sale of unregistered, counterfeit and substandard regulated products, stressing the importance of public cooperation in protecting consumers and safeguarding public health.