….NAFDAC shuts down 250 factories producing Fake Hennessy, Coca-Cola, and others in Abia
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has closed down the Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, for the second time in two years. During its latest operation, “Operation Clean Up Aba,” the agency uncovered and confiscated counterfeit and substandard food and beverages valued at over ₦5 billion.
Cemetery Market, known as a major hub for Africa’s largest counterfeit wine and beverage cartel, has been notorious for the production of fake alcoholic drinks, carbonated beverages, and food items. NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, described the raid as “the most decisive action in the history of the market” in a statement released on Tuesday.
“This is a significant step towards protecting public health and stopping the spread of counterfeit products in Nigeria,” Prof. Adeyeye stated.
The operation uncovered more than 240 makeshift factories that were producing counterfeit goods under unsanitary conditions. These factories were found using harmful chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled bottles to create fake versions of well-known brands like Hennessy, Seaman Schnapps, Coca-Cola, Sprite, Peak Milk, and Hollandia Yoghurt.
“These criminal elements use unhygienic sources of water, saccharin, colouring agents, and harmful chemicals unsuitable for human consumption. The adulteration of alcoholic beverages involves cheaper sugars and starches instead of fruits or grapes,” Adeyeye explained.
She added that over 1,500 cartons of fake products were destroyed on-site, with the total street value of the seized and destroyed goods estimated at ₦5 billion.
She said the operation also led to the discovery of three warehouses stockpiling expired Hollandia Yoghurt for revalidation on January 22.
NAFDAC commended the Abia State Government, led by Governor Alex Otti, for supporting the raid.
“The unwavering support of Governor Alex Otti, the Mayor of Aba South, and the interim market management committee has been critical to the success of Operation Clean Up Aba,” the Director-General said.
The agency urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products to the nearest NAFDAC office.
“We are determined to safeguard the health of the nation and rid markets of fake and substandard products,” Adeyeye assured all.