NAFDAC raids Abuja supermarkets, seize N37m worth of items

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, on Monday, September 30, raided some supermarkets and open shops in some parts of Abuja and seized counterfeit items worth N37 million.

The agency said in a statement posted on its X handle on Tuesday that during the operation which was based on intelligence reports from its Investigation and Enforcement Directorate, several unregistered and counterfeit cosmetics were seized.

NAFDAC noted that the development was part of efforts to rid the market of counterfeit and illegally imported cosmetics products in the nation’s capital.

‘’The agency has intensified its efforts to rid the market of counterfeit and illegally imported cosmetics products in Abuja.

Acting swiftly on detailed intelligence reports, the Agency’s Investigation & Enforcement Directorate launched a series of well-coordinated operations, conducting raids across various supermarkets and open markets in strategic locations, including the bustling Wuse and Garki markets. During these operations, numerous unregistered and counterfeit cosmetic products were confiscated, with the total estimated street value of the seized items reaching an impressive ₦37 million. This decisive action underscores the Agency’s dedication to protecting consumers from harmful and illegal products.

The Agency remains steadfast in its commitment to thoroughly investigating the origins and supply chains of these illegal and counterfeit products. It has pledged to leave no stone unturned in identifying the individuals or groups responsible for bringing these harmful goods into the market. Furthermore, the Agency has made it clear that it will enforce strict regulatory penalties against those found to be involved in these illicit activities. All confiscated products will be systematically destroyed in accordance with the Agency’s stringent laws and regulatory protocols, a vital step in safeguarding public health and ensuring consumer safety.

The Agency strongly urges members of the public to remain highly vigilant when purchasing products, particularly cosmetics, and to immediately report any suspicious items, vendors, or activities to the nearest agency office. By encouraging public cooperation and awareness, the Agency aims to create a more robust system of consumer protection and to prevent the circulation of dangerous and unapproved products that could pose serious risks to health and safety.