The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered more than 20 illegal stores allegedly involved in counterfeiting alcoholic beverages at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, seizing products valued at over ₦2 billion.

The operation was carried out on Tuesday, October 13, at Zamfara Plaza, BBA Trade Fair Complex, along the Badagry Expressway in Ojo, Lagos State, following what the agency described as credible intelligence.

In a statement, NAFDAC said its Investigation and Enforcement Directorate discovered more than 20 illegal stores concealed within makeshift parking spaces on the premises.

According to the agency, its operatives found individuals allegedly blending counterfeit versions of popular alcoholic beverage brands, revalidating expired and unsafe drinks for resale, and stockpiling banned imported products.

Two suspects were arrested during the operation, while the seized products were evacuated from the premises. NAFDAC valued the recovered products at more than ₦2 billion.

The agency's enforcement operation followed an earlier disclosure about a suspected counterfeit drinks facility at the complex, where expired energy drinks and popular wine and whisky brands were allegedly being prepared for resale.

Footage released by NAFDAC showed bottles, cans, labels, packaging materials and other items suspected to have been used in the illegal activities.

The agency also alleged that some operators purchased empty bottles of expensive alcoholic beverages, replaced their labels and refilled them with adulterated drinks in unhygienic conditions.

NAFDAC warned that counterfeit, adulterated and expired beverages could pose serious risks to public health, particularly when products are repackaged and sold to unsuspecting consumers.

The agency urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspected cases of illegal manufacturing, product revalidation or the sale of unsafe regulated products.

Complaints can be made through NAFDAC's official complaints line: 0800-1-NAFDAC (0800-1-623322).