Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have arrested two businessmen, Ikechukwu Okeke and Okeke Chukwuka over their alleged involvement in a syndicate engaged in the production and distribution of adulterated alcoholic beverages across the state.
The police arrest Okeke, 42 and 38 year-old Okeke Chukwuemeka through its Rapid Response Squad/VCRU during an intelligence-led operation conducted in the early hours following a raid which led to the discovery of a concealed mini-factory allegedly used for the large-scale manufacture of counterfeit alcoholic drinks.
The command stated that the enforcement, which happened on Monday, was sequel to preliminary investigations which revealed that the suspects belong to a wider criminal network specializing in the adulteration and counterfeiting of popular alcoholic brands.
Police further disclosed that during interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed to their involvement in the illegal trade and subsequently led operatives to the hidden production facility, where a substantial quantity of suspected adulterated alcoholic products, including Seaman’s Schnapps, McDowell’s, Eagle Schnapps, Elliot Hot Drinks, and Baileys Fresh Cream were retrieved.
Also recovered were various dangerous chemicals believed to be used in the production process, alongside large quantities of empty bottles, brand labels, and packaging materials allegedly prepared for the continued mass production and distribution of counterfeit beverages.
Confirming the development on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, said that the suspects are currently in custody while all recovered exhibits have been secured for forensic analysis and evidential purposes.
He added that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of the syndicate, as well as uncover the full extent of their operations within and outside the state.
Reacting to the arrest, the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, commended the operatives for their professionalism and swift response.
He warned individuals engaged in the production and distribution of counterfeit consumable products to desist from such criminal activities or face the full weight of the law.