The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has uncovered an illegal and unregistered juice production facility in Aradagun, Olorunda Local Council Development Area of Badagry, Lagos State. Located on Alabi Onilegbale Street, the facility was discovered during an operation carried out by the NSCDC following intelligence on its activities. The NSCDC reportedly recovered cartons of finished products, product labels, production equipment and other materials from the premises.
Two women, aged 48 and 50, were arrested during the operation. The product, identified as Barkas Juice, was allegedly being produced without the required registration and regulatory approval. The NSCDC also raised concerns over the NAFDAC registration number displayed on the product, which it said was being verified with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control.
Materials found at the facility included untreated water, sugar, colourants and other additives allegedly used in the production process. The NSCDC further alleged that the products were distributed to markets in Lagos, Benin City, Edo State, and other parts of the country. The Corps said it would collaborate with relevant regulatory authorities, including NAFDAC, to determine the status and safety of the products.
During the operation, operatives reportedly encountered resistance from youths in the area, prompting the involvement of the Nigerian Army. Two minors, aged 15 and 16, were also reportedly found at the facility. The Corps said they were allegedly involved in unauthorised labour and were subsequently rescued.
The facility has since been shut down as investigations continue. One of the arrested women reportedly claimed that the business had been established by her grandmother nearly two decades ago and that efforts were being made to regularise its registration. The NSCDC said it had taken necessary steps to ensure that the products were no longer being produced or distributed.
The suspects are expected to face further investigation and possible prosecution based on the outcome of the ongoing inquiry. The NSCDC's operation highlights the need for regulatory agencies to monitor and control the production and distribution of food products in the country. The incident also raises concerns about the safety and quality of food products available to consumers.
The NSCDC's efforts to crack down on illegal food production facilities are ongoing, with the Corps working closely with other regulatory agencies to ensure that food products meet safety and quality standards. The incident serves as a reminder to producers and distributors of the importance of complying with regulatory requirements to avoid facing prosecution and other consequences.
Key points
- Two women were arrested and a facility shut down for producing juice without registration.
- The products were allegedly distributed to markets in several states.
- Two minors were rescued from the facility, allegedly involved in unauthorised labour.
