The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has uncovered an illegal factory in Badagry, Lagos, where fake Barkas fruit juice was allegedly being produced. Operatives of the NSCDC Lagos State Command carried out a raid at the factory, leading to the arrest of two female suspects, aged 48 and 50. The suspects were allegedly caught producing the fake juice inside the factory.
According to the NSCDC, the drink was made by mixing water with synthetic flavourings, industrial sweeteners, artificial colourants, and chemical preservatives, while completely leaving out real fruit. The factory has been shut down, and the suspects are expected to face prosecution as investigations continue. The NSCDC said the operation was carried out after about five days of surveillance, working alongside personnel of the Nigerian Army.
The Lagos State Commandant of the NSCDC, Adedotun Keshinro, said the breakthrough was made possible through intelligence provided by members of the public. Keshinro stated that the lead suspect, aged 48, confessed that her grandmother started off with water production, which later upgraded to Barkas fruit juice production inherited from her grandmother about 20 years ago.
Investigators said preliminary findings showed the drink allegedly contained high levels of sugar, water, dyes, colourants, and additives instead of actual fruit. According to the agency, consuming products made with unsafe ingredients or produced under unhygienic conditions could expose consumers to serious health risks, including Type 2 diabetes and damage to vital organs such as the liver and kidneys.
The NSCDC also alleged that the products carried a fake registration number supposedly belonging to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The production, sale, and distribution of this fake fruit juice were done under a high level of unhygienic environment with wide distribution to Lagos markets, Benin City in Edo State, and many other States of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
During the operation, security operatives recovered a truck, cartons of the alleged fake Barkas juice, production machines, chemical substances, drums, gas cylinders, and other items believed to have been used in the manufacturing process. The NSCDC has ordered the immediate closure of the factory to prevent more products from getting into the market.
Keshinro said the two suspects will be prosecuted in line with the law, adding that the command will work with NAFDAC and other relevant agencies to investigate the case further and ensure those responsible are held accountable. The latest discovery has again raised concerns about counterfeit food and beverage products in Nigeria, with authorities urging consumers to buy only properly certified products from trusted retailers.
Key points
- - Two women were arrested for producing fake Barkas juice in Lagos. - The fake juice was made from water, chemicals, colourants, and sweeteners. - The factory has been shut down, and the suspects will face prosecution.
