By Desire Uzochukwu
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has seized counterfeit packaging materials worth more than ₦200 million from five shops at Old Court Road Market, Aba, Abia State, in an operation targeting the alleged production of fake alcoholic beverages and other regulated products.
The seized materials included counterfeit labels, corks and outer packaging bearing the names of popular brands such as Jameson, Glenfiddich, Four Cousins, Lord’s Dry Gin and Imperial Blue.
Other brands listed by the agency included Goya Oil, Chelsea, Squadron and Seaman’s Aromatic Schnapps.
NAFDAC said the operation was carried out on Thursday by its Investigation and Enforcement Directorate following credible intelligence about counterfeiting activities at the market.
In a press statement issued by Christiana Obiazikwor, Deputy Director and Head of Public Relations, the agency described Old Court Road Market as a location notorious for the production of packaging materials used to counterfeit branded spirits, wines and other regulated products.
Traders resist NAFDAC enforcement operation
The agency said its operatives encountered stiff resistance from traders during the operation, including threats and attempts to intimidate personnel involved in evacuating the seized materials.
“The operation was met with stiff resistance, threats and violent disposition from traders,” NAFDAC said.
According to the agency, some traders pursued the vehicle used to evacuate the materials and threatened individuals who volunteered to assist with loading the items.
Despite the resistance, NAFDAC said its operatives removed counterfeit packaging materials estimated to be worth more than ₦200 million from the five shops inspected.
The agency added that the owners of the affected shops fled during the operation.
The shops have since been placed on hold, while the suspected counterfeit packaging materials were evacuated.
NAFDAC begins investigation to identify suspects
NAFDAC said investigations were ongoing to identify and arrest those allegedly responsible for the counterfeiting operation.
However, the agency did not disclose whether any arrests had been made or identify the owners of the affected shops.
The seizure highlights concerns about the use of counterfeit labels, seals and packaging to make potentially fake products appear genuine.
Such practices can make it difficult for consumers to distinguish authentic alcoholic beverages from suspected counterfeits, potentially exposing them to products whose ingredients, manufacturing conditions and safety cannot be verified.
NAFDAC has repeatedly warned about the dangers posed by counterfeit and unwholesome products and the need to strengthen enforcement against those involved in their production and distribution.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to removing counterfeit products from Nigerian markets and protecting public health.
Insightwirenews reports that investigations into the Aba operation are continuing.
