Two suspects have been arrested by the Anambra State Police Command for allegedly producing and distributing adulterated alcoholic beverages in the state.
The suspects, Ikechukwu Okeke, 42, and Okeke Chukwuemeka, 38, were apprehended in the early hours of Monday by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad following credible intelligence, according to state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga.
Ikenga said preliminary investigations showed the duo are members of a syndicate specializing in the adulteration and counterfeiting of various alcoholic brands.
During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed and led operatives to their mini-factory. Items recovered include suspected fake Seaman’s Schnapps, McDowell’s, Eagle Schnapps, Elliot Hot Drinks, and Baileys Fresh Cream. Police also seized dangerous chemicals used in production, alongside empty bottles, labels, and other packaging materials.
“The suspects are currently in police custody, while the exhibits have been secured for forensic examination and evidential purposes,” Ikenga said in a statement Monday.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the operatives for the raid and warned those engaged in producing and distributing counterfeit consumables to desist or face prosecution.
Ikenga added that investigations are ongoing to identify other syndicate members and determine the full scope of their operations.
