NAFDAC seizes alcohol worth ₦2 billion from over 20 illegal stores in Lagos, arrests two suspects
NAFDAC says suspects used chemicals to remove expiry dates from drinks no longer fit for sale.
The agency added that suspects sourced expired drinks from bars and clubs with bartenders’ help.
A video from the raid showed Martell, Hennessy, Don Julio and Glenfiddich bottles alongside chemicals and packaging materials.
The agency disclosed that its Investigation and Enforcement Directorate raided the complex on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, following credible intelligence about the illegal operations concealed in makeshift parking stores.
According to NAFDAC, officers discovered suspects blending and counterfeiting popular alcoholic beverage brands, revalidating expired and unsafe drinks for resale, and stockpiling banned imported products.
Two suspects were arrested during the operation, while the agency seized and evacuated products worth more than ₦2 billion.
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The raid follows the discovery of a suspected counterfeit production facility at Zamfara Plaza, BBA Trade Fair Complex, in Lagos State.
NAFDAC Uncovers Counterfeit Alcohol Operation at Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Today, operatives from NAFDAC's Investigation & Enforcement (I&E) Directorate raided the International Trade Fair Complex in Lagos, uncovering a large-scale counterfeit alcoholic beverage operation concealed within makeshift parking stores on the premises. The enforcement action was executed on the basis of credible intelligence and resulted in the discovery of more than 20 illegal stores engaged in criminal operations within the complex. Officers found suspects in the process of blending and counterfeiting popular alcoholic beverage brands, revalidating expired and unsafe beverages for resale, and stockpiling banned imported products. Two suspects were apprehended, and products seized and evacuated are valued at over ₦2 billion. The Agency urges members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious manufacturing, revalidation, or sales activity through NAFDAC's official complaints line: 0800-1-NAFDAC (0800-1-623322).
— NAFDAC NIGERIA (@NafdacAgency) October 13, 2026
NAFDAC said the suspects allegedly used chemicals to remove expiry dates from drinks that were no longer fit for sale. They reportedly sourced expired beverages from bars and clubs through arrangements with bartenders.
A video released by the agency showed bottles of popular alcoholic beverages, including Martell, Hennessy, Don Julio and Glenfiddich, alongside chemicals and packaging materials used to refurbish the products.
#HappeningNow NAFDAC has uncovered a suspected counterfeit production facility at Zamfara Plaza, BBA Trade Fair Complex, Lagos State. Two suspects were arrested at the scene while allegedly revalidating energy drinks and popular wine and whisky brands. More details to follow shortly.
— NAFDAC NIGERIA (@NafdacAgency) October 13, 2026
The operations highlight concerns about the circulation of counterfeit and unsafe alcoholic beverages in Nigeria, which expose consumers to serious health risks.