NAFDAC Shuts Down Popular ‘Aba Cemetery Market’, Bursts Large Hauls Of Fake Wines, Soft Drinks

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has shut down Eziukwu Market (Cemetery Market) Aba in Aba, Abia State, involved in the production of counterfeit beverages, including wines, soft drinks, and consumables.

VerseNews reports that the agency disclosed this yesterday on its website, saying it carried out several weeks of intelligence gathering and collation of data on the activities of these merchants of death.

It said over 1,500 cartons of the fake and substandard products were destroyed during the operation DON 300 cartons were evacuated to NAFDAC warehouse adding that ten individuals were arrested and will face charges after a thorough investigation.

“The street value of the confiscated and destroyed fake products is estimated at over N750 million. Ten people were arrested on arrival at the scene of the crime and will be charged to court after thorough investigation,” the agency said.

According to Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General of NAFDAC, the counterfeiters operated like a cartel, threatening anyone who challenged their activities.

The counterfeiters were found manufacturing fake products under various popular brands such as Seaman Schnapps, Henessy, Four Cousins, Carlo Rossi, Jenney, Chelsea London Dry Gin, Schnapp Dry Gin, McDowells, Black Labels, Gordons, Martell, Campari, Smirnoff Ice, Eva non-alcoholic drinks, and more.

NAFDAC emphasizes the health hazards of consuming adulterated alcohol, urging vigilance during the festive season, and advising consumers to scrutinize the “4 Ps” – Place, Price, Packaging, and Product – before purchasing alcohol.

The street value of the confiscated and destroyed fake products is estimated at over N750 million.

Adeyeye, reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to eradicating counterfeit products nationwide and urged the public to report suspicious activities to the nearest NAFDAC office.