In a major operation targeting food counterfeiters, NAFDAC said in a statement on Friday that it has shut down eight rice shops and a warehouse in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, where the counterfeit rice was being produced and distributed.
Over 1600 bags of counterfeit rice worth approximately N5billion have been seized by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
In a major operation targeting food counterfeiters, NAFDAC said in a statement on Friday that it has shut down eight rice shops and a warehouse in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, where the counterfeit rice was being produced and distributed.
The raid, which also extended to Wuse and Garki markets in Abuja, was carried out on the directive of the Director General of NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, to protect public health during the festive season.
The counterfeit rice was discovered repackaged in branded bags such as Big Bull, Royal Stallion, and Tomato Aposo to mislead unsuspecting consumers.
Empty rice bags bearing popular brand names were also recovered at the Karu facility.
Mr. Kenneth Azikiwe, the Director in charge of the FCT, said, “We are committed to ensuring the safety of Nigerians by clamping down on counterfeiters. Those involved in this illegal act will face legal consequences to deter others.”
Suspects apprehended during the operation will be prosecuted, NAFDAC confirmed, which is part of its efforts to combat counterfeit products in the market.
In a major operation, NAFDAC has shut down eight rice shops and a warehouse in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
The facilities were implicated in producing and distributing counterfeit rice, leading to the seizure of over 1,600 bags worth approximately ₦5 billion. pic.twitter.com/KknkXv2Dns
— NAFDAC NIGERIA (@NafdacAgency) December 20, 2024