NAFDAC impounds counterfeit wines at Apongbon market in Lagos

Officers of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have seized counterfeit alcoholic and non-alcoholic wines valued at N8,000,000 in Lagos state.

Speaking with NAN, Anita Dabor, NAFDAC’s head of public relations, said the drinks were intercepted following a raid of the popular Apongbon market in Lagos.

She said the operation was part of the agency’s efforts to eradicate fake, unwholesome, and counterfeit alcoholic and non-alcoholic wines and drinks from circulation.

Dabor added that many of the counterfeit products were sold by merchants underneath the Apongbon bridge.

“They were mopped up and include very popular brands of wines and spirits,” she said.

“During the mop-up operation, a transport vehicle containing an array of drinks including JAPATA (a herbal drink that failed laboratory tests) was found hidden in the vehicle.

“The offending products were confiscated and evacuated.

“Attempts to apprehend the supplier of the Japata in the market proved abortive.

“The products mopped up from the market are valued at N8,000,000. However, the investigation is ongoing.”

Dabor said NAFDAC is fully alive to its responsibilities of ensuring the safety, wholesomeness, and quality of foods and other regulated products offered for sale to the public.

She advised consumers to be vigilant and exercise discretion when making purchases, especially during the festive season, and report suspicious activities to the nearest NAFDAC office.