The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has arrested Anthony Chidi at Mile 3 Market, Diobu, Port Harcourt, for producing fake alcoholic beverages in highly unsanitary conditions. This was confirmed in a statement shared by NAFDAC on Wednesday via X (formerly Twitter).
Details of the Illegal Operation
According to the agency, Chidi was apprehended in a filthy shop where he was caught washing used bottles from various alcoholic brands and refilling them with unwholesome drinks for resale. During the raid, NAFDAC officials found dirty empty bottles, ethanol, bottle caps, and other packaging materials all being used in the counterfeit production.
Confession and Duration of the Operation
Upon interrogation, Chidi admitted to running the illicit business for about a year, sourcing labels from Aba and purchasing used bottles to carry out the fraudulent activity.
Seizure and Further Investigation
The NAFDAC team evacuated the premises, confiscating all items found on-site for further investigation. The agency emphasized that this arrest was part of its ongoing efforts to combat the production and sale of counterfeit food and drink products in Nigeria.
This arrest serves as a reminder of the dangers of fake alcoholic beverages, which can pose serious health risks to consumers. NAFDAC has promised to continue its efforts to safeguard public health by cracking down on illegal operations like this one.
