Police Busts Fake Alcohol Factory in Lagos, Arrests Four

Confidence UbaniMarch 21, 20241 Mins read626

The Nigeria Police Force busted an illicit factory producing fake alcoholic beverages in Lagos State.

According to Benjamin Hundeyin, spokesperson for the state Police Command, officers from the Isokoko Division acted on credible intelligence to raid a residence in Agege where the fake drinks were being manufactured.

Hundeyin disclosed that four individuals involved in the illegal distillery were apprehended, and a significant quantity of counterfeit drinks, along with empty bottles and labels from various brands, were seized by law enforcement.

“Officers of Isokoko Division, acting on credible information, raided a house in Agege where fake alcoholic drinks were being produced. The police arrested four people behind the illegal distillery, and recovered fake drinks, empty bottles and labels of different brands. Investigation is ongoing”, he said in an X post.

From packaged foods to automotive parts, footwear, apparel, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, a wide array of products are susceptible to counterfeiting in Nigeria.

In a previous operation on December 11, officials from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), in collaboration with other security agencies, conducted a raid at the Eziukwu (Cemetery Street) Market following intelligence reports on the production of fake wines, soft drinks, and other items. The operation resulted in a substantial seizure estimated at ₦750 million.

Counterfeiting remains a pervasive issue in Nigeria, with organised crime syndicates heavily involved in the illicit trade. Despite efforts by companies to safeguard intellectual property, the Nigerian market continues to be flooded with substandard counterfeit goods, posing financial losses for legitimate brands. Manufacturers and relevant authorities should engage consumers proactively, and raise awareness about digital codes or symbols that verify the authenticity of products.

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