The Zone 2 command of the Nigeria Police Force has apprehended a couple for their involvement in the illicit production and distribution of various adulterated alcoholic beverages across markets in Lagos and Ogun states over the past six years.
As per a press statement issued by the Zone 2 Police Public Relations Officer (ZPPRO), SP Ayuba T. Umma, the suspects, Margret Austine and her husband, Austine Idemudia (also known as Baba Joshua), were apprehended by the Raider Section of the Zone 2 Police Command, led by CSP Ngozi Braide.
Acting on intelligence regarding illegal production activities, the operatives conducted a raid on the couple’s residence on Muibi Olawumi Close, off Ayetoro/Itẹle Road on April 4.
During the operation, a significant quantity of counterfeit alcoholic beverages, including wine, liquor, champagne, and other spirits, were seized.
The recovered items include branded bottles of Del-Mud, Del-Mud Royal, and Smooth Brandy Wine drinks, available in both bottle and mini-pack forms. Additionally, unlabeled and branded bottles of suspected adulterated alcoholic beverages, along with various containers containing mixtures believed to be ingredients for the adulterated drinks, were seized.
The Zone 2 Police Public Relations Officer (ZPPRO) reported the recovery of production equipment such as pumping machines, funnels, sealing machines, a funnel containing a white handkerchief used as a filter, and a corkscrew, among other items used in the production and branding process.
Margret, the female suspect apprehended at the scene, confessed to her involvement in the illegal operation for six years. She disclosed that their adulterated products were distributed to buyers across Lagos and Ogun states.
The Zone 2 Command is actively investigating the case and will provide further updates to the public as they become available.
AIG Olatoye Durosinmi, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2 Command, has urged the public to exercise vigilance when purchasing food and beverages, emphasizing the health risks associated with consuming adulterated products.
The statement reiterated the Zone 2 Police Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents in Lagos and Ogun states.
