LAGOS, NIGERIA — Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, have uncovered an alleged illegal juice production facility in Aradagun, Badagry, where “Barkas Juice” was reportedly being produced.
Two women, aged 48 and 50, were arrested during the operation. The factory was reportedly located on Talabi Onilegbale Street, Aradagun, and was discovered following about five days of surveillance based on intelligence received by the security agency.
What did NSCDC find?
According to the NSCDC, preliminary findings indicated that the drink was allegedly produced using water, synthetic flavourings, industrial sweeteners, artificial colourants, dyes and chemical preservatives, rather than real fruit.
The agency also alleged that the production environment was unhygienic. Reports from the site described a dirty well and an unclean industrial storage tank.
The operation reportedly recovered:
- Cartons of the finished drink
- Product labels
- Production equipment
- Chemicals and additives
- Industrial sugar
- A truck loaded with products
The NSCDC also alleged that the products were being distributed to markets in Lagos, Edo State and other parts of Nigeria.
Alleged fake NAFDAC number
Another major issue raised by the NSCDC is the NAFDAC registration number displayed on the product.
Officials alleged that the number 01-2166L was not genuine. This allegation will need to be established through the relevant regulatory investigation.
Factory owner questioned
The NSCDC said the 48-year-old lead suspect told investigators that the business was started by her grandmother as a water-production venture and was later expanded into Barkas fruit-drink production. She reportedly said she inherited the business about 20 years ago.
There are also reports that teenagers aged 15 and 16 were found at the facility and rescued, with authorities investigating their involvement.
Factory shut down
The facility has been shut down while investigations continue. The two suspects remain in custody, with prosecution expected after the investigation.
The NSCDC said the operation was carried out with support from the Nigerian Army after some youths reportedly attempted to resist the raid.
0 COMMENTS
Leave a Reply