The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a massive counterfeit rice operation in Nasarawa State, leading to the seizure of 1,600 bags of fake rice worth an estimated ₦5 billion.
“In a major operation, NAFDAC has shut down eight rice shops and a warehouse in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa state,” the agency revealed in a statement on Friday.
According to NAFDAC, the facilities were implicated in the production and distribution of counterfeit rice, prompting further raids in Wuse and Garki markets in Abuja.
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“The raid extended to Wuse and Garki markets in Abuja, following a directive from the @DGatNAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye,” the statement continued.
During the operation, NAFDAC officials discovered fake rice repackaged in branded bags, including popular names such as Big Bull, Royal Stallion, and Tomato Aposo.
The counterfeiters allegedly aimed to deceive unsuspecting consumers.
“Empty rice bags bearing popular brand names were also discovered at the Karu facility,” the agency added.