NAFDAC Shuts 250 Factories Producing Fake Hennessy, Coca Cola And Other Drinks In Abia
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has once again closed the infamous Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia, after fraudulent drinks were discovered.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, January 28, NAFDAC Director General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, described the raid as “the most decisive action in the history of the market,” adding that NAFDAC also discovered and confiscated fake and substandard food and beverages worth over N5 billion in its most recent operation, Operation Clean Up Aba.
“This is a major step toward safeguarding public health and curbing the circulation of fake products in Nigeria,” Adeyeye said.
During the investigation, approximately 240 makeshift factories were alleged to have been located, creating counterfeit goods in unclean conditions.
Adeyeye claimed that these companies used dangerous chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled bottles to produce counterfeit versions of popular brands such as 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.
She further stated that approximately 1,500 cartons of counterfeit products were destroyed on-site, with the total street value of the confiscated and destroyed goods estimated at N5 billion.
The NAFDAC chairman further stated that the operation resulted in the discovery of three warehouses hoarding expired Hollandia Yoghurt for revalidation on January 22.
The Cemetery Market has a reputation for creating counterfeit alcoholic drinks, carbonated beverages, and culinary products.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
