The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has seized counterfeit packaging materials valued at more than ₦200 million from five shops at Old Court Road Market in Aba, Abia State, during an enforcement operation targeting the alleged production of fake alcoholic beverages and other regulated products.
The agency said the seized materials included counterfeit labels, corks and outer packaging bearing the names of popular local and international brands, raising concerns about the potential circulation of fake wines, spirits and other consumer goods.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 15, by its Deputy Director and Head of Public Relations, Christiana Obiazikwor, NAFDAC said its Investigation and Enforcement Directorate conducted the operation following credible intelligence.
The agency described Old Court Road Market as a major centre for the alleged production of counterfeit packaging materials for branded spirits, wines and other regulated products.
Brands whose packaging materials were reportedly recovered included Jameson, Glenfiddich, Four Cousins, Lord’s Dry Gin, Imperial Blue, Goya Oil, Chelsea, Squadron and Seaman’s Aromatic Schnapps.
NAFDAC disclosed that its operatives encountered stiff resistance from traders during the operation, including threats and attempts to intimidate enforcement personnel.
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“The operation was met with stiff resistance, threats and violent disposition from traders,” the statement said.
The agency further alleged that some traders pursued the vehicle conveying the seized materials and threatened individuals who volunteered to assist in loading the items.
Despite the resistance, NAFDAC said its operatives successfully evacuated as much of the suspected counterfeit packaging materials as possible.
According to the agency, the owners of the five shops targeted in the operation fled during the exercise, while the affected premises were placed on hold pending further action.
NAFDAC said investigations were ongoing to identify and apprehend those allegedly responsible for the counterfeiting operation.
The agency, however, did not disclose whether any arrests had been made or provide further details about the identities of the suspected shop owners.
The seizure comes amid concerns over the circulation of counterfeit alcoholic beverages and other regulated products, which could expose consumers to potentially harmful substances and undermine efforts to verify the authenticity and safety of products sold under established brand names.
NAFDAC reiterated the importance of enforcement operations in tackling the production and distribution of counterfeit goods and protecting public health.
