The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, has sealed a factory and eight shops in Nasarawa State for packaging and distributing counterfeit rice, valued at approximately ₦5 billion.
The operation, conducted on December 19, targeted a facility named Ninjur Ventures on Abacha Road, Karu, Nasarawa State.
The factory, hidden behind a residential building, was discovered producing fake rice under popular brands such as Royal Stallion, Big Bull, Mama’s Choice, Optimum, and Ultimate Gold.
During the raid, NAFDAC’s Investigation and Enforcement Task Force seized 1,600 bags of counterfeit rice in 25kg and 50kg sizes, along with empty branded sacks.
Gift Thomas, a factory worker, was arrested during the raid. Thomas denied involvement, claiming the branded bags originated elsewhere and that operations at the factory had ceased on December 17.
However, evidence contradicted her claims.
The factory’s owner, Eze Dike, was absent during the raid. Eight additional shops along Old Karu Road were also sealed, and two shop owners were arrested for their roles in the illegal trade.
Kenneth Azikiwe, NAFDAC’s Director for the Federal Capital Territory, stated that the operation is part of a broader directive from the agency’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, to eliminate counterfeit food products and ensure public safety during the festive season.
Azikiwe stated NAFDAC’s zero-tolerance policy: “We implement zero tolerance to counterfeiting and faking, ensuring only safe, good-quality food products are available to Nigerians during this yuletide season and beyond.”
He disclosed that intelligence reports and complaints from legitimate manufacturers had led to the crackdown.
Azikiwe urged Nigerians to verify the sources of their food products, purchase from reputable stores and check for NAFDAC registration and batch information.
“The suspects involved in this criminal activity will face the full wrath of the law in line with NAFDAC regulations,” Azikiwe added.
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