Jelili Gbadamosi
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised concerns over public health after uncovering a suspected illegal alcoholic drinks factory in Aba, Abia State, where materials valued at over N500 million were reportedly discovered.
The facility, located at No. 25 Omenazu Street, was uncovered following intelligence received by the agency about suspected counterfeit alcoholic drinks production.
NAFDAC officials reportedly found the premises operating under unhygienic conditions, with various materials suspected to have been used in the production and packaging of fake alcoholic beverages.
The agency said the suspected operator fled upon the arrival of its enforcement team, abandoning a vehicle containing counterfeit packaging materials bearing the names of Sir Edwards Scotch Whisky and Scottish Hills Whisky.
Empty bottles and a drum containing approximately 200 litres of liquid were also found in the vehicle.
A search of the premises reportedly uncovered bottle caps, sealing machines, cartons, empty bottles, packaging materials and tanks containing various liquid concoctions.
Officials also discovered plastic buckets and 200-litre drums containing ethanol, alongside tree bark immersed in ethanol, raising concerns about the nature and safety of the substances used in the suspected production process.
The agency said dirty sieves believed to have been used during production were also recovered from the facility.
NAFDAC estimated the value of the equipment, materials and other components found at the premises at more than N500 million.
The discovery has renewed concerns about the potential health risks associated with counterfeit alcoholic beverages, particularly products manufactured and packaged under unhygienic conditions without proper regulatory oversight.
The agency urged members of the public to provide credible information that could assist in identifying and dismantling illegal manufacturing operations.
NAFDAC also reiterated the importance of public cooperation in efforts to protect consumers from potentially dangerous products and prevent the circulation of counterfeit alcoholic drinks.
