NAFDAC raids illicit drug manufacturing facility in Delta State, arrests suspect

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a major illegal drug manufacturing operation hidden within an uncompleted three-storey building in Azagba Ogwashi, near Issele-Azagba, Delta State.

The significant discovery was made by NAFDAC’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate during a targeted raid, marking a crucial step in the agency’s ongoing war against counterfeit and substandard drugs in Nigeria.

According to NAFDAC officials, the illicit facility was being used to produce a range of adulterated pharmaceutical products, including various injectable medications.

Shockingly, the clandestine drug production site was located on the ground floor of a building that also doubled as a residential space, posing immediate health risks.

During the operation, officers successfully arrested Blessing Igwe, identified as the wife of the alleged ringleader, Ekene Igwe, who remains at large.

Authorities state that Ekene Igwe is the suspected mastermind behind the clandestine operation, and a widespread manhunt is currently underway to apprehend him.

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A NAFDAC official highlighted the severity of the discovery, noting, “The building was not just an illegal manufacturing site; it was a health hazard and a threat to public safety. We found equipment and products that clearly violated safety standards. This is a criminal act that endangers lives.”

NAFDAC emphasized that it will intensify its surveillance and enforcement efforts across the country to prevent such criminal activities and ensure that only safe and rigorously regulated medical products are available to Nigerians.

The agency also appealed to the public to remain highly vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities or products to the nearest NAFDAC office.

This raid is part of a broader nationwide crackdown on counterfeit drugs and unauthorized pharmaceutical operations, which continue to pose a persistent and dangerous challenge to public health in Nigeria.