Operation Crush Uncovers Suspected Illegal Beverage Factory, Rescues Underage Workers in Aba

The Abia State Joint Security Task Force, Operation Crush, has uncovered a suspected illegal wine and beverage production facility in Aba and rescued several underage workers allegedly engaged at the factory.

The facility, located in a secluded area along the Borrow Pit axis of Uku Dara, off Obioha Road in Aba, was raided on Monday following intelligence reports about suspicious manufacturing activities in the area.

Security operatives said the operation was carried out after receiving credible information about the activities of the facility, which is allegedly owned by Anigbo Michael, popularly known as Apostle Michael.

According to security sources, operatives encountered resistance upon arrival at the premises as workers allegedly refused to grant them access despite repeated requests. The team later gained entry and conducted a search of the facility.

During the operation, several minors were reportedly discovered working at the factory. Some of the children were said to be as young as 13 years old, while others were between 16 and 17 years.

The discovery has raised concerns over the alleged use of child labour in the production activities of the facility.

Operatives also reportedly recovered a document described as an “Oath of Secrecy,” which workers were allegedly required to sign to prevent them from disclosing activities within the premises.

Further inspection of the facility allegedly revealed that various brands of wines and beverages were being produced under conditions considered unsafe and unhygienic.

Security personnel observed that bottles used for packaging were allegedly washed with water sourced from nearby drainage channels, raising concerns about public health and consumer safety.

The owner of the facility was said to be absent during the raid. While some workers reportedly informed operatives that he had gone out for lunch, security sources said he later claimed during a telephone conversation that he was outside the city.

Investigators are also examining claims that the facility possessed approval from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to produce some of the beverages.

The development has sparked concerns over the proliferation of counterfeit food and beverage products, as well as the need for stricter enforcement of health, safety and manufacturing regulations.

Authorities said investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of the alleged activities at the facility and establish the culpability of those involved.

The operation has also renewed calls for stronger measures against counterfeit products, child labour and unsafe manufacturing practices in the state.