NAFDAC Busts Counterfeit Alcohol Trade in Lagos, Seizes Products Worth ₦2bn

By Sherif Salau

Operatives of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have dismantled a large-scale counterfeit alcoholic beverage operation at the International Trade Fair Complex in Lagos, seizing products valued at ₦2 billion.

The raid, carried out on Tuesday by the agency’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate, followed credible intelligence. Officers uncovered more than 20 illegal stores concealed within makeshift parking spaces at Zamfara Plaza, BBA Trade Fair Complex, along the Badagry Expressway in Ojo.

According to NAFDAC, suspects were found blending and counterfeiting popular alcoholic beverage brands, revalidating expired and unsafe drinks for resale, and stockpiling banned imported products. Two suspects were arrested during the operation, while the seized items were evacuated from the premises.

The agency warned that the circulation of counterfeit, expired or unsafe alcoholic beverages poses significant risks to public health. It urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious manufacturing, revalidation or sales activities through its official complaints line: 0800-1-NAFDAC (0800-1-623322).

The enforcement action highlights ongoing efforts by NAFDAC to protect consumers from hazardous products and disrupt networks involved in the production and distribution of fake regulated items in the state.