The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a 40-year-old man, Ubong Ntiense, for allegedly producing and distributing adulterated alcoholic beverages. Ntiense, a native of Ibiaku Village in the Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area, was arrested on September 26, 2026, during a stop-and-search operation along Aba Road in Ikot Ekpene. The police recovered 120 bottles of suspected fake dry gin from him.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, Ntiense was intercepted while allegedly conveying the products to Essien Udim Local Government Area for delivery. A search of the suspect led to the recovery of five cartons of suspected adulterated dry gin bearing the label, “Pointers Special Dry Gin.” Each carton contained 24 bottles, totaling 120 bottles.
The suspect and the recovered exhibits were taken to the station for preliminary investigation, during which he allegedly confessed to involvement in the production of the adulterated alcoholic beverages. The police are investigating Ntiense's involvement in the production and distribution of the counterfeit products.
Based on information obtained during the investigation, police operatives secured and executed a search warrant at Ntiense's residence and premises. They recovered substances and other materials allegedly used in producing the drinks as exhibits. The police are working to identify other persons allegedly connected to the production and circulation of the counterfeit products.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has directed that the investigation be conducted thoroughly and professionally. Azare described the production and distribution of adulterated alcoholic beverages as a serious public safety concern. He warned individuals involved in the manufacture, transportation, or sale of counterfeit drinks to desist.
Azare stressed that the command would continue to deploy intelligence-led operations and surveillance to disrupt such activities. He urged members of the public to exercise caution when purchasing alcoholic beverages and promptly report suspicious production or distribution activities to the police or relevant regulatory agencies.
The police command is working to curb the production and distribution of counterfeit products in the state. The public is advised to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The suspect is currently in police custody facing charges related to the production and distribution of adulterated alcoholic beverages.
Key points
- The Akwa Ibom State Police Command arrested a 40-year-old man with 120 bottles of suspected fake dry gin in Ikot Ekpene.
- The suspect, Ubong Ntiense, allegedly confessed to involvement in the production of the adulterated alcoholic beverages.
- The police are investigating Ntiense's involvement and working to identify other persons allegedly connected to the production and circulation of the counterfeit products.
