NAFDAC cracks down on fake rice vendors in Port Harcourt markets

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), in partnership with Big Bull Rice producers, has raided multiple shops in Woji, Mile 3, and Mile 1 markets in Port Harcourt, uncovering a major counterfeit rice operation.

A key distribution hub for the fake Big Bull Rice was identified at a shop along the YKC axis of Woji. Inside, officials found large quantities of empty counterfeit Big Bull Rice bags, along with other brands such as Cap Rice, Stallion Rice, Tomato Rice, and Mama Pride. A salesgirl, Ogechi Okafor, was arrested at the scene.

Authorities also recovered essential packaging equipment, including sewing and sealing machines, a generator, a stove, and thread, alongside several bags of already rebagged rice.

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Pharm. Emmanuel Onogwu, NAFDAC’s Rivers State Coordinator, explained that genuine Big Bull Rice can be distinguished from fake versions by a unique shiny ribbon across the threaded top, superior bag quality, and an authentic logo.

He warned that rebagged rice often comes from dubious sources and may contain harmful chemicals used to improve its appearance.

In total, over 120 fake bags of rice were confiscated from more than ten shops and transported to the NAFDAC Zonal Office for further investigation.