The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC) has intensified its efforts to combat the production and sale of adulterated beverages in Nigeria.
In a recent operation, the agency arrested a 52-year-old man, Anthony Chidi, in Port Harcourt for producing fake beverages.
The production and sale of adulterated beverages have become a significant public health concern in Nigeria. These products can cause serious health problems, including liver and kidney damage, and even death. NAFDAC has been working to combat this menace, and the recent arrest is a significant milestone in this effort.
Chidi was arrested by NAFDAC officials at his shop in the Mile 3 Market in the Diobu area of Port Harcourt. The officials found him washing used bottles of various brands of alcoholic beverages, which he would then refill and sell to unsuspecting consumers.
The Director of NAFDAC’s South-South Zone, Chukwuma Oligbu, warned that “hard times await those still involved in the illicit production of NAFDAC regulated products.” He emphasized that the agency would continue to crack down on perpetrators of such illicit acts.
During interrogation, Chidi revealed that he started the illicit business about a year ago, after relocating from Aba in Abia State. He allegedly sourced his labels and packaging materials from Aba, while buying used bottles in Port Harcourt.
NAFDAC has evacuated the shop and moved its contents to their office for further investigation and prosecution. The agency has also warned those involved in adulterating registered products to give up the illegal practice or face jail time.
The production and sale of adulterated beverages pose a significant risk to public health. These products can cause serious health problems, including liver and kidney damage, and even death. NAFDAC’s efforts to combat this menace are critical to protecting the health and well-being of Nigerians.
NAFDAC’s arrest of Anthony Chidi is a significant milestone in the agency’s efforts to combat the production and sale of adulterated beverages in Nigeria. The agency’s commitment to protecting public health is commendable, and its efforts should be supported by all stakeholders.