The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a suspected counterfeit alcoholic drinks production facility at No. 25 Omenazu Street, Aba, Abia State.

The agency said the facility was discovered following credible intelligence, with officials finding it operating under unhygienic conditions.

According to NAFDAC, the suspected operator reportedly fled upon the arrival of its officials, abandoning a vehicle containing counterfeit packaging materials bearing the names of Sir Edwards Scotch Whisky and Scottish Hills Whisky, empty bottles and a drum containing approximately 200 litres of liquid.

A search of the facility also revealed counterfeit packaging materials, bottle caps, sealing machines, empty bottles, cartons, tanks containing various liquid concoctions and dirty sieves allegedly used in the production process.

The agency further discovered plastic buckets and 200-litre drums containing ethanol, as well as tree bark immersed in ethanol, raising concerns about the safety and quality of the suspected products.

NAFDAC estimated the value of the equipment, materials and facility components recovered at more than ₦500 million.

The agency urged members of the public to report suspected illegal manufacturing activities through its call centre on 0800-1-623322 or 0700-1-623322, or via email at reforms@nafdac.gov.ng.