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By Stella Odueme
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a suspected counterfeit alcoholic drinks production facility at No. 25 Omenazu Street, Aba, Abia State.
The discovery followed credible intelligence received by the Agency, which led its officials to the facility, where production activities were reportedly being carried out under unhygienic conditions.
The suspected operator reportedly fled upon the arrival of the NAFDAC 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.
A search of the premises also revealed packaging materials, bottle caps, sealing machines, empty bottles, cartons, tanks containing various liquid mixtures and dirty sieves suspected to have been used in the production process.
Officials further discovered plastic buckets and 200-litre drums containing ethanol, as well as tree bark immersed in ethanol, raising concerns about the safety and quality of the alcoholic beverages allegedly being manufactured at the facility.
NAFDAC estimated the value of the equipment, materials and other components found at the facility at more than ₦500 million.
The Agency has urged members of the public to provide credible information about suspected illegal manufacturing activities to aid its enforcement efforts.
Reports can be made through the NAFDAC Call Centre on 0800-1-623322 or 0700-1-623322, or by email at reforms@nafdac.gov.ng.