The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, has uncovered an alleged illegal juice production facility in Badagry, arresting two women in connection with the operation.
Speaking to journalists after the facility was uncovered on Monday, September 21, the Civil Defence Public Relations Officer of the Lagos State Command, SC Oluwaseun Abolurin, said the identities of the two suspects were being withheld pending the conclusion of investigations.
According to Abolurin, the facility allegedly supplied illegally packaged juice to markets across Lagos. He said already packaged products were found at the premises, with some reportedly loaded into container trucks for distribution.
He further alleged that juveniles between the ages of 15 and 16 were involved in activities at the facility.
Items reportedly recovered from the premises included sugar, water, adhesives, dyes and colourants, which the Corps said were used in the production process.
During interrogation, one of the suspects claimed that the factory was established by her grandmother and had operated for nearly 20 years before shutting down due to challenges.
She reportedly said the business was in the process of renewing its registration with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), adding that production only took place about three or four times a year based on customer orders.
The NSCDC said investigations are ongoing and that the suspects would be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.
