NAFDAC seals 100 shops in Enugu market over sale of fake alcoholic beverages

From Chinelo Kodilichukwu Enugu

The National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has shut down about 100 shops in Ogbete Main Market, Enugu for alleged dealing in suspected fake alcoholic beverages.

The agency also confiscated a truckload of adulterated products as well as effected the arrest of four suspected traders in the process of a well-coordinated raid.

Speaking after the raid and arrest, NAFDAC’s Director South-East Zone, Pharm Martins Iluyomade, said on Monday that the suspects were already in custody and would be charged to court after ongoing investigation.

He noted that the raid was in furtherance to NAFDAC’s mandate to safeguard the health of the nation and rid the South-East of unwholesome, substandard, fake and adulterated products.

“We stormed the popular Ogbete Main Market, Enugu in Enugu State since Friday and have shut down 100 shops which have been identified for selling fake alcoholic beverages.

“Arrests were made and the suspects are currently in custody.

“This fake wine and alcoholic beverages are being sold to unsuspected customers and the general public but we are determined to rid the market of these unwholesome products, ” he said.

The NAFDAC Zonal boss said the intensive operation was with active collaboration with the Police, Department of State Services and the Nigerian Army which deployed their personnel for the purpose of the well-coordinated raid.