By Sunny A. David, Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has uncovered and shut down a factory producing fake and potentially toxic soft drinks in Okpoko, Ogbaru Local Government Area.
The operation was carried out on September 3, 2025, by the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Awkuzu.
Police confirmed the arrest of 48-year-old Chigozie Okafor, who is accused of manufacturing counterfeit fruit juices under the brand name Iyi Obeleagu Juice.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, the products were being produced without approval from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
SP Tochukwu warned that the fake beverages posed serious health risks to both adults and children, stressing that the items were unfit for human consumption.
The discovery has also raised questions about the effectiveness of regulatory bodies such as the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and NAFDAC, whose responsibility is to prevent the circulation of counterfeit and adulterated products. Reports indicate that such illegal goods remain widespread in Anambra State.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has ordered a full-scale investigation to uncover all those connected to the illegal operation.
He also issued a stern warning to others engaging in similar criminal activities, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to protecting public health and safety.
