NAFDAC cracks down in Lagos, seizes ₦350m fake alcohol haul

NAFDAC illegal alcohol bust Lagos sees agency dismantle fake drink facilities and seize N350m worth of counterfeit beverages

The National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has dismantled two illegal production facilities in Lagos State linked to the manufacture and distribution of counterfeit and adulterated alcoholic beverages valued at approximately ₦350 million.

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NAFDAC operate against illicit alcohol production in lagos operations were carried out following what the agency described as credible intelligence on the activities of the suspected syndicates, according to a statement released via its official X account.

The coordinated raids took place at Zamfara Plaza within the Trade Fair Complex and in parts of Lagos Island, where enforcement officers reportedly recovered more than 1,800 cartons of fake alcoholic drinks.

At the Trade Fair Complex, investigators discovered makeshift production setups, including plastic mixing tanks, improvised filtration systems, empty branded bottles, corks, and packaging materials allegedly used to produce and distribute counterfeit beverages.

The scene was described as highly organised and deceptive in nature.

In a separate operation on Lagos Island, officials arrested one suspect believed to be connected to the illicit production and retail distribution network operating through a local outlet.

NAFDAC confirmed that all recovered products and equipment have been seized and removed for further regulatory action, stressing that investigations are ongoing to identify other individuals involved in the operation.

The agency issued a stern warning over the public health risks associated with consuming adulterated alcoholic drinks, noting that such products can cause severe poisoning, long-term organ damage, and in extreme cases, death.

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Authorities say the latest crackdown underscores renewed efforts to curb the circulation of fake consumables in Nigeria’s commercial hubs.

Mariam Balogun