The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a suspected counterfeit beverage operation at Zamfara Plaza, BBA Trade Fair Complex, along the Badagry Expressway in Ojo, Lagos State, arresting two suspects in connection with the alleged illegal activity.

The operation followed intelligence gathering and surveillance on suspected counterfeiters operating within the Trade Fair International Market.

The Assistant Director of the agency’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate, Mr Kunle Ojo, said operatives caught some of the suspects allegedly handling the drinks during the raid.

Items recovered at the facility included drums, filters, packaging materials, a heating device and other equipment suspected to have been used to process and repackage alcoholic and energy drinks.

The products allegedly involved included Bullet Energy Drink, Don Julio tequila and Jameson whisky, among other beverage brands.

NAFDAC said the suspects were allegedly removing expired labels and replacing them to make the products appear suitable for sale. The operation also uncovered bottles and packaging materials believed to have been intended for the process.

One of the arrested suspects, identified as Okafor, reportedly said he dealt in drinks and changed the bottles when the contents were no longer fit for sale. The other suspect was identified by the surname John.

Ojo said the agency would investigate the source of the beverages, the raw materials used in the operation and the individuals allegedly financing or directing the activity.

He warned that counterfeit and improperly repackaged drinks posed serious public health risks, particularly when consumers could not determine their actual contents or expiry status.

The agency said enforcement activities had been intensified ahead of the festive season, when demand for alcoholic and other beverages typically increases.

NAFDAC officials also urged members of the public to report suspected counterfeit production and distribution directly to the agency rather than circulate unverified claims on social media.

The agency said recovered products and materials would be taken to its warehouse for further action, including destruction in accordance with applicable procedures, while the arrested suspects would face further investigation and possible prosecution.

NAFDAC reiterated its commitment to protecting consumers through market surveillance, seizures and enforcement against manufacturers and distributors of counterfeit, adulterated and unregistered products.