The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a shop at Ekumi Plaza, Ariaria Market, Abia State, stocked with falsified and unregistered drugs, along with ₦5 million in cash hidden in drawers.
During the enforcement operation, officials found a variety of illicit pharmaceutical products, including counterfeit Ampiclox GSK imported from India, Postinor-2 contraceptives, Vega Plus 100, Claratem-QS, and Maloxine Tablets.
The shop, allegedly involved in repackaging and selling these unapproved drugs, posed a serious public health risk.
NAFDAC said further deepening the investigation, operatives discovered traces of Methamphetamine, popularly known as mkpuru mmiri, both within the shop and in other locations across the plaza.
The agency said when contacted by the Department of State Services (DSS), the shop owner denied any connection to the business.
Meanwhile, in a separate crackdown at the Idumota Drug Market in Lagos, NAFDAC operatives found a concealed stash of critical vaccines—including Yellow Fever, Dano Anti-Tetanus, Measles, and Diphtheria vaccines—hidden beneath a staircase.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect was involved in smuggling these vaccines to neighbouring West African countries, particularly Liberia.
Authorities also discovered that the premises had CCTV cameras installed, suggesting a sophisticated operation under active surveillance. The suspect was apprehended and is currently in detention as investigations continue.
NAFDAC has reiterated its commitment to eliminating the circulation of falsified drugs and safeguarding public health, warning individuals engaged in illegal drug sales to desist or face the full wrath of the law.
