NSCDC uncovers alleged illegal juice factory in Lagos, arrests two women

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has uncovered an alleged illegal fruit juice production facility in the Badagry area of Lagos State and arrested two women.

Officials said the factory, located at Talabi Onilegbale Street in Aradagun, Olorunda Local Council Development Area, was producing drinks branded as Barkas Juice.

The suspects, aged 48 and 50, were arrested during an operation conducted after security personnel monitored activities at the facility.

The NSCDC alleged that the products were being manufactured using water, sugar, additives, colourants and other ingredients without actual fruit.

Officials also alleged that checks on the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control portal did not confirm the product name under the registration details being used at the facility.

Footage from the operation showed cartons of packaged drinks, labels, production equipment and a truck reportedly loaded with products awaiting distribution.

The NSCDC further alleged that children aged about 15 and 16 were being used in the production process.

One of the arrested women told officials that the business had operated for about 20 years and supplied products both within and outside Lagos.

The Corps said investigations are continuing and that the matter is expected to be taken to court.

The suspects have not been convicted, and the claims about the products remain allegations by the NSCDC pending the outcome of investigation and legal proceedings