The National Agency for Foods, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has seized counterfeit rice worth ₦5 billion.
The seizure followed an operation by personnel of the agency in Karu, Nasarawa State and Wuse, Garki markets in Abuja.
In a statement on Friday, the Director in charge of the FCT, Mr. Kenneth Azikiwe, stated that the agency was committed to ensuring public safety.
The statement disclosed that empty bags of rice belonging to popular brands were used to package the fake kinds of rice.
“In a major operation, NAFDAC has shut down eight rice shops and a warehouse in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
“The facilities were implicated in producing and distributing counterfeit rice, leading to the seizure of over 1,600 bags worth approximately ₦5 billion.
“The raid extended to Wuse and Garki markets in Abuja, following a directive from the NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, to safeguard public health during the festive season.
“The operation uncovered counterfeit rice repackaged in branded bags such as Big Bull, Royal Stallion, and Tomato Aposo, which aimed at deceiving unsuspecting consumers.
“Empty rice bags bearing popular brand names were also discovered at the Karu facility,” Azikiwe said.
Mr. Kenneth Azikiwe, warned counterfeiters to desist from such practices or face legal consequences, adding that suspects apprehended during the raid would be prosecuted to deter others.