The Anambra State Police Command has shut down an illegal factory involved in the production of counterfeit soft drinks in Okpoko, a community in Ogbaru Local Government Area of the state.
The operation, carried out by officers of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) based in Awkuzu, led to the discovery of several batches of fake juice products labeled “Iyi Obeleagu Juice.”
A 48-year-old suspect, Chigozie Okafor, was arrested at the scene.
Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Sunday, September 7.
He said the drinks were being manufactured without the approval of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and posed serious health risks to consumers.
“The products are highly dangerous to both adults and children and are being produced in an unhygienic, unregulated setting,” Ikenga warned.
The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, has ordered a full-scale investigation to uncover other accomplices and determine how far the distribution network may have reached.
He also issued a stern warning to individuals engaging in similar activities to desist immediately.
“We are committed to protecting public health and will continue to clamp down on those endangering lives through criminal production of fake consumables,” the CP stated.
This latest bust adds to a troubling trend of illegal factories operating across Anambra and other parts of Nigeria.
These outfits often produce counterfeit beverages, pharmaceuticals and other consumables under dangerous conditions, with no oversight.
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This isn’t the first time law enforcement has uncovered such operations in the state:
In October 2024, a task force discovered an illegal fake wine production facility in Nkpor, Onitsha, where imitation brands such as “Classic Heaven,” “Baron Devanis,” “Dutch Black,” and fake “Hennessy” were being produced. Seven suspects were arrested.
In June 2024, police also shut down an illegal pharmaceutical production site in Umuoji, Idemili North, where counterfeit drugs including paracetamol and Flagyl were being manufactured. Six suspects were taken into custody.
The police are urging residents to be alert and report suspicious activities, especially concerning food and beverage production.
Authorities also advised consumers to check for NAFDAC registration numbers and avoid unbranded or poorly packaged products.
The Anambra State Police Command reiterated its commitment to dismantling all forms of illegal trade that put public health at risk.
