…Recover counterfeit Baileys, Schnapps, chemicals, packaging materials in illegal factory raid
By Our Correspondent
Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have uncovered and dismantled a suspected counterfeit alcoholic beverage production factory in the state, arresting two alleged members of a syndicate involved in the adulteration and distribution of fake drinks.
The suspects, identified as Ikechukwu Okeke, 42, and Okeke Chukwuemeka, 38, were arrested in the early hours of Sunday following credible intelligence received by operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad and the Vigilante Crime Response Unit (VCRU).
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were part of a criminal network specializing in the adulteration and counterfeiting of popular alcoholic beverages.
He said the suspects confessed to the crime during interrogation and subsequently led police operatives to their makeshift production facility.
During the raid, officers recovered large quantities of suspected counterfeit products, including Seaman’s Schnapps, McDowell’s, Eagle Schnapps, Elliot Hot Drinks, and Baileys Fresh Cream. Also recovered were dangerous chemicals allegedly used in the production process, empty bottles, labels, and packaging materials intended for further manufacturing of the fake drinks.
The suspects are currently in police custody, while the recovered exhibits have been secured for forensic analysis and evidential purposes.
Commending the operatives for the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, warned individuals engaged in the production and distribution of counterfeit consumable products to desist or face the full weight of the law.
He assured residents that the command remains committed to safeguarding public health and tackling criminal activities that endanger lives.
Police said investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate and determine the full scope of their operations.
Tags: Anambra Police, Counterfeit Drinks, Fake Alcohol, Ikechukwu Okeke, Okeke Chukwuemeka, CP Ikioye Orutugu, Tochukwu Ikenga, Crime News, Public Health, Adulterat
