Police Bust Illegal Factory Producing Counterfeit Alcoholic Beverages in Lagos

Law enforcement authorities have raided an illicit facility in Lagos State, uncovering a clandestine operation manufacturing counterfeit alcoholic beverages.

According to Benjamin Hundeyin, spokesperson for the State Police Command, the operation resulted in the arrest of four individuals associated with the illegal enterprise, along with the seizure of counterfeit products.

Hundeyin stated: “Officers from Isokoko Division, acting on reliable intelligence, conducted a raid on a premises in Agege suspected of producing fake alcoholic drinks. Subsequently, four suspects were apprehended, and a quantity of counterfeit beverages, along with empty bottles and labels from various brands, were confiscated. Investigations are ongoing.”

The proliferation of fake beverages and alcoholic drinks has become a significant concern in the Nigerian market.

In a separate incident last December, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) intercepted counterfeiters at the Eziukwu market in Aba, Abia state.

The operation uncovered a range of counterfeit beverages, including wines, soft drinks, and other items valued at over N750 million. NAFDAC, in collaboration with other security agencies, initiated the operation following a tip-off.

According to the NDLEA, the counterfeiters engaged in various illegal activities, including the production of adulterated products, particularly wines from well-known brands such as Seaman Schnapps, Henessy, Four Cousins, Carlo Rossi, Jenney, Chelsea London Dry Gin, Schnapp Dry Gin, McDowells, Black Labels, Gordons, Martell, Campari, Smirnoff Ice, Eva non-alcoholic drink, Evra non-alcoholic drink, Cartel, among others.