NAFDAC confiscates N300m illegal drinks in Lagos

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has taken away alcoholic drinks worth around N300m. These drinks were packed in sachets and PET bottles smaller than 200ml. The enforcement happened in Lagos State.

NAFDAC shared this news in a statement on its Facebook page on Sunday. They also mentioned that some distributors and retailers selling these banned drinks were arrested.

The agency conducted these operations at Ile-Epo Market, Ojuwoye Market in Mushin, and Oke-Arin Market on Lagos Island.

"Officials evacuated several cartons of alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and PET bottles below 200ml from these locations.

"Distributors and retailers were arrested during operations at Ile-Epo Market, while raids were also conducted at Ojuwoye Market, Mushin, and Oke-Arin Market, Lagos Island," the statement said.

NAFDAC reported that investigations found some distributors and retailers were hoarding these banned drinks. This was happening due to rising demand and prices.

The agency said these actions are part of efforts to make sure everyone follows the ban on selling and distributing alcoholic beverages in sachets and PET bottles below 200ml.

They warned distributors, retailers, and others against selling, distributing, or hoarding these banned products.

"NAFDAC emphasises that the ban remains in force and warns distributors, retailers, and other operators against the sale, distribution, or hoarding of the prohibited products.

"The value of the seized products is estimated at N300m," it stated.

PUNCH Metro reported on August 25 that NAFDAC ordered manufacturers of banned alcoholic drinks in sachets and PET bottles below 200ml to recall these products across the country. If they don’t comply, they risk closing their businesses.

NAFDAC also promised to fully enforce the Federal Government-approved ban on these alcoholic drinks. They warned that this ban cannot be reversed.

The agency mentioned that the grace period given to manufacturers to stop producing these drinks has ended.