Police nab two for making fake alcoholic drinks in Anambra

The Anambra State Police have arrested two people for making and selling fake alcoholic drinks in the state.

The suspects are Ikechukwu Okeke, 42, and Okeke Chukwuemeka, 38. They were caught early on Monday by officers from the Rapid Response Squad after police received reliable information.

SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the state Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Monday. He said the suspects are now in police custody. The police also secured evidence from them for forensic tests.

Ikenga mentioned that initial investigations show the suspects are part of a group that makes and sells fake alcoholic drinks.

The police found items including Seaman’s Schnapps, McDowell’s, Eagle Schnapps, Elliot Hot Drinks, and Baileys Fresh Cream. They also recovered dangerous chemicals believed to be used in making these drinks.

Ikenga said: “Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command attached to the Rapid Response Squad/VCRU have arrested two suspects allegedly involved in the production and distribution of adulterated alcoholic beverages in the state.

“The suspects, identified as Ikechukwu Okeke, 42, and Okeke Chukwuemeka, 38, were arrested in the early hours of June 15, 2026, following credible intelligence received by the police.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are members of a syndicate specialising in the adulteration and counterfeiting of various alcoholic beverages.

“During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed to the crime and subsequently led operatives to their mini-factory.

“At the facility, police operatives recovered several suspected adulterated alcoholic products, including Seaman’s Schnapps, McDowell’s, Eagle Schnapps, Elliot Hot Drinks and Baileys Fresh Cream, as well as dangerous chemicals allegedly used in the production process.

“Also recovered were numerous empty bottles, labels and other packaging materials intended for the continued manufacture of the counterfeit drinks.

“The suspects are currently in police custody, while the exhibits have been secured for forensic examination and evidential purposes.”

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, praised the operatives for their successful operation. He warned anyone making or selling fake products to stop or they will face serious consequences.

“Investigation is ongoing to identify and catch other members of the syndicate and find out how far their operations go,” he added.