The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has apprehended a suspect, identified as Madu Abuchi Simon, for allegedly producing counterfeit versions of popular alcoholic beverages in Lagos State. The arrest, which marks another milestone in the agency’s intensified crackdown on food and drug counterfeiting, also led to the seizure of fake products estimated to be worth over N114 million.
According to a statement released via NAFDAC’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, the suspect was caught red-handed at his illegal production site, where he was fabricating fake labels and filling reused branded bottles with adulterated substances. Among the falsified products were household liquor brands such as Hennessy, William Lawson, Baileys, Martell, St. Remy, and Jameson—premium alcoholic drinks widely consumed across the country.
The agency noted that the operation was carried out by its enforcement team, and that the suspect had attempted to escape the scene but was promptly apprehended.
The statement revealed that a search of the premises uncovered alarming evidence, including expired bottles of Amarula cream liqueur, numerous empty branded bottles and packaging materials, fake brand stickers, and various tools such as stoves, buckets, cotton wool, and a purple chemical suspected to be used for washing and reusing the bottles.
“Over 100 cartons of assorted counterfeit alcoholic beverages, valued at more than N114 million, were confiscated and evacuated from the illegal production site,” NAFDAC said, adding that the outlet had been sealed and further investigations had commenced.
In a firm warning to the public, the agency urged Nigerians to exercise caution by purchasing alcoholic beverages only from credible and trusted vendors. It emphasized that consumers should be vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to food or drink falsification to the nearest NAFDAC office.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and consumer safety, stressing that the illegal production of fake consumables poses serious health risks and will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
