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NAFDAC has shut down the Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, for the second time in two years.
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The agency seized fake and substandard food and beverages worth over ₦5 billion in its latest operation.
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Over 240 makeshift factories producing counterfeit products under unsanitary conditions were discovered.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has shut down the infamous Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, for the second time in two years.
The agency seized fake and substandard food and beverages worth over ₦5 billion in its latest operation, tagged Operation Clean Up Aba.
Described as a hub for Africa’s largest counterfeit wine and beverage cartel, Cemetery Market has been notorious for producing fake alcoholic drinks, carbonated beverages, and food products.
NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, described the raid as “the most decisive action in the history of the market.
“This is a major step toward safeguarding public health and curbing the circulation of fake products in Nigeria,” Adeyeye added.
During the operation, over 240 makeshift factories were discovered, producing counterfeit products under unsanitary conditions.
Adeyeye revealed that these factories used harmful chemicals, contaminated water, and recycled bottles to manufacture fake versions of popular brands, including 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,” Adeyeye explained.
The agency destroyed over 1,500 cartons of fake products on-site, with the total street value of the seized and destroyed goods estimated at ₦5 billion. NAFDAC commended the Abia State Government, led by Governor Alex Otti, for supporting the raid.
READ ALSO: NAFDAC Shuts Down Abia Market Over Fake, Expired Products Worth N5 Billion
“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.
NAFDAC seizes N5bn Worth Of Counterfeit Rice In Nasarawa
Yet again, the operatives of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC have intercepted another counterfeit goods.
The agency seized bags of rice worth billions of naira, shutting down eight rice shops and a warehouse in the process in the Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State
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