The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confiscated a significant amount of counterfeit rice during a raid on multiple shops in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
In a statement shared on X.com on Thursday, NAFDAC revealed that the operation, conducted in collaboration with Big Bull Rice producers, targeted markets in Woji, Mile 3, and Mile 1, where large-scale sales of fake Big Bull Rice were uncovered.
“A shop on the YKC axis of Woji was identified as a major distribution hub for counterfeit rice,” the statement read. Officials discovered empty counterfeit Big Bull Rice bags, along with other rebagged rice brands, including Cap Rice, Stallion Rice, Tomato Rice, and Mama Pride.
A salesgirl, identified as Ogechi Okafor, was apprehended, and authorities recovered items used for illegal repackaging, including sewing and sealing machines, a generator, a stove, thread, and several bags of fake rice.
NAFDAC’s Rivers State Coordinator, Emmanuel Onogwu, highlighted features distinguishing original Big Bull Rice from counterfeits, such as a shiny ribbon across the threaded top, superior bag quality, and an authentic logo. He warned that rebagged rice often comes from dubious sources and may be treated with harmful chemicals to enhance its appearance.
Over 120 fake bags of rice were seized from more than 10 shops and have been transported to the NAFDAC Zonal Office for further investigation.