NSCDC Arrests Two Women Over Alleged Fake Fruit Juice Production in Badagry

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, has arrested two women over the alleged production of adulterated fruit juice at an illegal factory in Badagry.

The suspects, aged 48 and 50, were reportedly arrested during an operation conducted by NSCDC operatives in collaboration with a Nigerian Army formation in the area.

The Corps said the operation followed five days of surveillance and was carried out between Saturday, September 19, and Sunday, September 20, 2026.

According to preliminary findings, the suspects were allegedly producing and packaging a product identified as “Barkas Juice” using water, synthetic flavourings, industrial sweeteners, artificial colourants, preservatives and other chemical additives instead of real fruit.

NSCDC also alleged that the product was being marketed with a falsified NAFDAC registration number and distributed to markets in Lagos, Benin City and other parts of the country.

During the operation, officials recovered a truck, cartons of the suspected adulterated juice, production machinery, drums, chemicals and a gas cylinder from the facility.

Following the discovery, the Lagos State Commandant of NSCDC, Adedotun Keshinro, ordered the immediate shutdown of the factory.

The Corps said the suspects would be subjected to further investigation and prosecution, while arrangements are being made to work with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and other relevant agencies.

NSCDC said the collaboration is expected to assist investigators in determining the full extent of the alleged operation and the distribution of the suspected adulterated product.