David Williams
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered more than 20 illegal stores involved in counterfeit alcohol production at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, with seized products valued at over ₦2 billion.
NAFDAC says suspects used chemicals to remove expiry dates from drinks no longer fit for sale, adding 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.
The raid follows the discovery of a suspected counterfeit production facility at Zamfara Plaza, BBA Trade Fair Complex, in Lagos State.
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.
