The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has seized counterfeit packaging materials for popular alcoholic beverages and other products worth over ₦200 million in Aba, Abia State.
Acting on credible intelligence, the agency’s Investigation and Enforcement operatives on Wednesday raided five shops at Old Court Road Market suspected of producing and supplying the fake materials.
The operation uncovered counterfeit labels, corks, packs and outer packaging materials bearing the names of several brands, including Jameson, Glenfiddich, Four Cousins, Lord’s Dry Gin, Imperial Blue, Goya Oil, Chelsea, Squadron and Seaman’s Aromatic Schnapps.
NAFDAC said the packaging materials seized were estimated to be worth over ₦200 million.
During the raid, the operatives encountered threats and resistance from traders, which made the evacuation of the seized items challenging. The owners of the five shops were absent, and the premises were placed on hold to prevent interference with the remaining materials.
The agency issued an invitation to the Market Union Chairman, who pledged to ensure the security of the sealed premises and assist in identifying and presenting the shop owners.
AbdulBasit Saba is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
