NEWS
NAFDAC Uncovers Suspected ₦500 Million Counterfeit Alcohol Factory Omenazu Street in Aba, Operator Flees
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a suspected counterfeit alcoholic drinks production facility at No. 25 Omenazu Street, Aba, Abia State, following an intelligence-led operation that exposed potentially dangerous manufacturing activities.
The discovery has raised fresh concerns about public health and the circulation of potentially unsafe alcoholic beverages, as officials reportedly found unhygienic production conditions, questionable liquid mixtures and counterfeit packaging materials bearing the names of established whisky brands.
According to the information released by the Agency, NAFDAC officials stormed the facility after receiving credible intelligence about suspected illegal manufacturing activities.
However, the suspected operator reportedly fled upon the arrival of the enforcement team, abandoning a vehicle containing materials believed to be connected to the production and packaging of counterfeit alcoholic drinks.
Inside the vehicle, officials discovered packaging materials bearing the names of Sir Edwards Scotch Whisky and Scottish Hills Whisky, alongside empty bottles and a drum containing approximately 200 litres of liquid.
A further inspection of the premises revealed an assortment of equipment and materials suspected to have been used in the production of the illicit beverages. These included counterfeit packaging materials, bottle caps, sealing machines, empty bottles, cartons, tanks containing various liquid concoctions and dirty sieves reportedly used during the manufacturing process.
The enforcement team also uncovered plastic buckets and 200-litre drums containing ethanol, as well as tree bark immersed in ethanol. The discoveries have raised serious questions about the ingredients, production methods and potential health risks associated with the suspected counterfeit products.
The Agency’s findings point to a potentially extensive illegal operation, with the estimated value of the equipment, materials and facility components reportedly exceeding ₦500 million.
The development underscores the dangers posed by counterfeit alcoholic beverages, particularly products manufactured outside regulated facilities without verifiable quality control measures. Such products may contain unsafe substances or improperly processed ingredients capable of endangering consumers.
NAFDAC has urged members of the public to remain vigilant and assist its enforcement efforts by providing credible information about suspected illegal manufacturing activities and other sources of counterfeit products.
Members of the public can report suspicious activities through the Agency’s Call Centre on 0800-1-623322 or 0700-1-623322, or send information via email to reforms@nafdac.gov.ng.
The discovery serves as a fresh warning about the need for stronger public vigilance and sustained regulatory enforcement to protect consumers from potentially dangerous alcoholic beverages circul
ating in the market.