The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has seized alcoholic beverages estimated at ₦300 million during enforcement operations targeting banned products in Lagos State.
The seized beverages were packaged in sachets and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles below 200 millilitres, despite an existing prohibition on the production, distribution and sale of such products.
NAFDAC said its enforcement teams carried out raids at several markets across Lagos, including Ile-Epo Market, Ojuwoye Market in Mushin and Oke-Arin Market on Lagos Island.
Several cartons of the prohibited alcoholic beverages were evacuated from the affected locations, while some distributors and retailers were arrested during the operations.
According to the regulatory agency, preliminary investigations indicated that some distributors and retailers had been hoarding the prohibited products amid increased demand and rising prices.
NAFDAC reiterated that the ban on alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and PET bottles below 200ml remains in force. It warned manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers and other operators involved in the supply chain against continuing to stock, transport, distribute or sell the products.
The latest operation forms part of NAFDAC’s wider nationwide enforcement campaign aimed at removing the banned alcoholic beverages from circulation. The agency commenced coordinated enforcement activities across Nigeria in July, targeting markets, motor parks, retail outlets, bars and other distribution channels.
NAFDAC has said the enforcement is intended partly to address concerns over underage drinking, harmful alcohol consumption and substance abuse, particularly among children and young people.
The agency had previously warned that continued possession, distribution or sale of the prohibited products could attract regulatory sanctions, seizure of goods and possible prosecution.
The latest seizure comes after NAFDAC ordered manufacturers of the affected products to recall remaining stocks nationwide, signalling an intensified effort to ensure that the prohibited beverages are removed from the Nigerian market.
The agency has urged businesses still holding such products to surrender them and comply with the regulatory directive rather than continue trading in them.
The Lagos operation further underscores NAFDAC’s ongoing efforts to enforce the ban and prevent prohibited alcoholic beverages from re-entering the market.
Post a Comment