National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, has again shut down 250 factories producing fake drinks at the infamous Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State.
This was disclosed by NAFDAC Director General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, on Tuesday. The shut down is the second carried out by the agency in the market in two years.
The DG described the raid as “the most decisive action in the history of the market.” She said, “NAFDAC also uncovered and confiscated fake and substandard food and beverages worth over ₦5 billion in its latest operation tagged Operation Clean Up Aba.”
“This is a major step toward safeguarding public health and curbing the circulation of fake products in Nigeria,” Adeyeye added.
She noted that during the operation, over 240 makeshift factories were said to have been discovered, producing counterfeit products under unsanitary conditions.
According to her, these factories used harmful chemicals, contaminated water and recycled bottles to manufacture fake versions of popular brands. The drinks included Hennessy, Seaman Schnapps, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Peak Milk and Hollandia Yoghurt.
“These criminal elements use unhygienic sources of water, saccharin, colouring agents, and harmful chemicals unsuitable for human consumption. The adulteration of alcoholic beverages involves cheaper sugars and starches instead of fruits or grapes,” Adeyeye explained.
The DG added that over 1,500 cartons of fake products were destroyed on-site. She, however, gave the total estimated street value of the seized and destroyed goods at ₦5 billion.
Adeyeye pointed out that the operation also led to the discovery of three warehouses stockpiling expired Hollandia Yoghurt for revalidation on January 22.
On the synergy between the agency and the Abia State Government, Adeyeye commended the State Governor, Alex Otti. She praised him for supporting the activities of the agency in the State.
The DG, therefore, urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products to the nearest NAFDAC office.
She said, “The unwavering support of Governor Alex Otti, the Mayor of Aba South, and the interim market management committee has been critical to the success of Operation Clean Up Aba.”
“We are determined to safeguard the health of the nation and rid markets of fake and substandard products,” Adeyeye added.
Recall that the Cemetery Market has been notorious for producing fake alcoholic drinks, carbonated beverages, and food products.
source: Channels TV
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