The National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) officials have uncovered a syndicate engaged in the production of counterfeit bottled water in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The discovery came after diligent investigation and surveillance conducted by NAFDAC operatives in the South-South zone.
According to Cyril Monye, the Zonal spokesman of NAFDAC in South-South, the syndicate operated clandestinely from a shop disguised as a pool betting house along Pipeline Road in the Eneka axis of the capital city. This discovery sheds light on the pervasive nature of illicit activities and the need for vigilant monitoring by regulatory agencies to safeguard public health and safety.
The covert operation by NAFDAC officials led to the seizure of 30 packs of the fake bottled water, which were promptly evacuated to the NAFDAC office for further investigation. Additionally, the uncorked bottles were emptied, and the empty plastic containers were also removed from the premises. The swift action by NAFDAC highlights the agency’s commitment to upholding regulatory standards and combating the proliferation of counterfeit goods in the market.
In a statement issued by Cyril Monye, it was revealed that the syndicate utilized a run-down shop disguised as a pool house for their illicit production activities. The modus operandi involved the use of used Eva plastic bottles, which were filled with contaminated water sourced from a paint bucket. Disturbingly, the perpetrators employed dirty rubber funnels covered with clothing material as makeshift filters during the filling process.
The counterfeit operation went further as already printed Eva labels were affixed to the plastic bottles, giving the illusion of authenticity. The bottles were then sealed with pre-fabricated Eva caps, completing the deceptive packaging process. Such elaborate schemes underscore the sophistication of criminal enterprises involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit goods, posing significant risks to unsuspecting consumers.
One individual identified as Chibunna James, believed to be a distributor of the adulterated water, was apprehended during the raid as he was caught loading the fake products for sale. However, the mastermind behind the operation remains at large, prompting intensified efforts by law enforcement agencies to track down and apprehend the perpetrator. NAFDAC has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to the production and distribution of counterfeit goods to aid in the fight against illicit trade.
The discovery of the fake bottled water syndicate serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive threat posed by counterfeit products to public health and safety. Counterfeit goods not only undermine regulatory efforts but also erode consumer trust in legitimate brands. As NAFDAC continues to crack down on illicit activities, it underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between regulatory agencies, law enforcement, and the public in combating the scourge of counterfeit goods in Nigeria.
In conclusion, the busting of the fake bottled water syndicate in Port Harcourt reaffirms NAFDAC’s commitment to protecting consumers from the dangers of counterfeit products. The agency’s swift action underscores the need for continuous vigilance and stringent enforcement measures to safeguard public health and safety in Nigeria.
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