The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a suspected illegal alcoholic beverage production facility in Aba, Abia State, following an intelligence-led operation that exposed materials believed to be linked to the manufacture of counterfeit whisky.
The facility, located at No. 25 Omenazu Street, was reportedly operating under unhygienic conditions, raising concerns about the safety of alcoholic drinks potentially produced and distributed from the premises.
According to the agency, the suspected operator fled upon the arrival of its enforcement team, leaving behind a vehicle containing packaging materials bearing the names of Sir Edwards Scotch Whisky and Scottish Hills Whisky, alongside empty bottles and a drum containing approximately 200 litres of liquid.
A search of the premises revealed what officials described as an assortment of equipment and materials suspected to have been used in the production and packaging of counterfeit alcoholic beverages.
Among the items recovered were bottle caps, sealing machines, cartons, empty bottles, plastic buckets and tanks containing different liquid mixtures. Dirty sieves were also discovered at the facility.
Of particular concern was the discovery of ethanol stored in plastic containers and 200-litre drums, including drums containing tree bark immersed in ethanol. The findings have raised questions about the ingredients, production methods and potential health risks associated with the suspected products.
NAFDAC estimated the value of the recovered equipment, materials and other components of the facility at more than ₦500 million, highlighting the scale of the suspected illegal operation.
The discovery adds to concerns over the circulation of counterfeit alcoholic beverages, which may expose consumers to potentially dangerous substances when manufactured without appropriate quality controls and regulatory oversight.
The agency has urged members of the public to assist its efforts to identify and dismantle illegal manufacturing operations by providing credible information about suspicious activities.
Reports can be made through the NAFDAC Call Centre on 0800-1-623322 or 0700-1-623322, or by email at reforms@nafdac.gov.ng.
