The National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confiscated 120 bags of counterfeit rice from various shops in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The seizure came after a joint raid by NAFDAC and Big Bull, targeting shops selling fake rice.
In a statement released by NAFDAC's Public Relations Officer for the Southsouth zone, Cyril Monye, the agency confirmed that the raid was conducted in collaboration with Big Bull rice producers, focusing on shops at Woji, Mile 3, and Mile 1 markets.
NAFDAC's Rivers State Coordinator, Pharm. Emmanuel Onogwu, issued a stern warning to both the public and traders to remain vigilant against counterfeit and rebagged rice products. During the operation, a shop in the YKC axis of Woji was discovered to be a major source of fake Big Bull rice. Large quantities of empty fake Big Bull rice bags, along with products like Cap Rice, Stallion Rice, and Mama Pride, were recovered from the premises.
A sales girl identified as Ogechi Okafor was arrested during the raid. Additionally, items such as sewing machines, ceiling machines, generator sets, stoves, thread, and bags of already rebagged rice were found at the shop.
Onogwu advised consumers to look for distinctive features to differentiate genuine Big Bull rice from counterfeit products. He pointed out that authentic Big Bull rice bags have a shiny ribbon running across the top, high-quality bag materials, and a recognizable logo. He also warned that rebagged rice often comes from questionable sources and is polished with chemicals to make it appear more appealing.
NAFDAC reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and quality of food products in the market and urged the public to report any suspicious items to the agency.
