NAFDAC Shuts Down 240 Shops in Abia, Seizes Counterfeit Products Worth N700 Million

In a decisive move against the proliferation of counterfeit drugs and products, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has closed down no fewer than 240 shops at Cemetery Road Market in Aba, Abia State. The crackdown, carried out within the first two weeks of December, resulted in the confiscation of counterfeit drugs and other items valued at over N700 million.

NAFDAC Director-General, Professor Moji Adeyeye, revealed during a media briefing in Lagos that the operation targeted a network of counterfeiters engaged in the production of a range of beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, as well as consumables. The counterfeit products included popular brands such as Schnapps, Dry Gin, Hennessy, Four Cousins, Chelsea, London Dry Gin, Gordons, Eva wine, and Coca-Cola, among others.

Adeyeye emphasized the health risks associated with consuming these fake products, noting that some of the counterfeiters re-validated expired items in unsanitary conditions. The agency’s intervention followed weeks of intelligence gathering, culminating in a sting operation to dismantle the criminal activities operating like a cartel in the market.

During the raid, 240 shops were shut down, and 1,500 cartons of counterfeit products were destroyed, with an estimated value of N700 million. Ten individuals were apprehended at the scene and will face legal consequences.

Highlighting NAFDAC’s achievements in 2023, Professor Adeyeye mentioned the agency’s engagement with health journalists across different regions to discuss the harmful effects of bleaching cream. Additionally, she underscored the deployment of Monkey Pox and human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccines, imported into the country for disease treatment based on mutual recognition.

Adeyeye urged Nigerians to exercise caution when purchasing beverages, advising them to patronize reputable supermarkets and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. She emphasized the importance of checking product packaging, ensuring seals are intact, and being vigilant for signs of contamination. As NAFDAC continues its efforts to safeguard public health, consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant and prioritize the purchase of products from trusted sources.