NAFDAC Apprehends Five Suspects Over Alleged Sale Of Counterfeit Cosmetics In Abuja

Five individuals have been apprehended by the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on charges of peddling counterfeit cosmetics. The arrests took place on Wednesday, May 15, in the Garki and Wuse areas during a crackdown operation………….CONTINUE READING

Mr. Embugushiki-Musa Godiya, NAFDAC’s Head of Investigation and Enforcement for the Federal Taskforce, addressed the media following the operation, stating that the apprehended individuals would undergo thorough investigation. He emphasized NAFDAC’s commitment to eradicating fake cosmetics and other counterfeit goods from the nation.

According to Godiya, NAFDAC had been conducting investigations into these illicit cosmetic products based on intelligence reports. He noted that some of these items had been illicitly imported into the country despite border security measures.

Godiya explained, “NAFDAC maintains a presence at all entry points into the country, but due to the porous nature of our borders, smugglers often exploit loopholes in the system.” Consequently, he stated that when these products evade detection at ports or borders, NAFDAC conducts market surveillance, gathers intelligence, and seizes the counterfeit goods for potential prosecution.

The seized cosmetics have an estimated market value of N35 million. NAFDAC intends to continue its investigation to determine the extent of the suspects’ involvement. Following the investigation, regulatory action, possibly including prosecution, will be taken against the suspects.

Godiya urged Nigerians to collaborate with NAFDAC in the fight against counterfeit products, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to safeguard public health and combat illicit trade.