Police in Anambra State have arrested two men suspected of producing and distributing adulterated alcoholic beverages, authorities said Monday.
The suspects, identified as Ikechukwu Okeke, 42, and Okeke Chukwuemeka, 38, were arrested by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad and VCRU following intelligence reports, according to a statement issued by police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects were members of a syndicate involved in the adulteration and counterfeiting of various alcoholic products.
Ikenga said the suspects allegedly confessed during interrogation and led investigators to a facility believed to be used for the illicit operation.
Police recovered several suspected counterfeit alcoholic beverages, including Seaman’s Schnapps, McDowell’s, Eagle Schnapps, Elliot Hot Drinks and Baileys Fresh Cream. Authorities also seized chemicals allegedly used in the production process.
Investigators further recovered numerous empty bottles, labels and packaging materials believed to have been intended for the continued manufacture and distribution of the products.
The suspects remain in police custody, while the recovered items have been secured for forensic examination and use as evidence, police said.
Anambra State Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu commended the officers involved in the operation and warned individuals engaged in the production and distribution of counterfeit consumable products to desist or face prosecution.
Police said investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other suspected members of the syndicate and determine the full scope of the operation.
