NAFDAC seizes ‘N200m’ fake alcohol packaging materials in Abia

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) says its operatives seized counterfeit packaging materials for alcoholic beverages and other products, worth more than N200 million in Aba, Abia state.

In an X post on Wednesday, NaAFDAC said the officials raided five shops at Old Court road market in Aba following credible intelligence on the production and supply of counterfeit packaging materials.

The agency said the seized items included fake labels, corks, packs and outer packaging materials bearing the names of several brands.

“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. The packaging materials seized were estimated to be worth over N200 million,” the post reads.

NAFDAC said its investigation and enforcement operatives encountered threats and resistance from traders during the operation, making it difficult to evacuate the seized materials.

It added that the owners of the five shops were absent during the raid, while the premises were placed on hold to prevent interference with the items left inside.

According to the agency, it invited the market union chairman, who pledged to ensure the security of the sealed premises and assist in identifying the shop owners.