NAFDAC seizes large quantities of fake rice in Port Harcourt

Officials from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have seized large quantities of counterfeit rice in a recent operation in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

NAFDAC disclosed this development in a statement accompanied by photos and videos shared on its official social media pages on Thursday.

The agency, in collaboration with Big Bull Rice producers, conducted raids in Woji, Mile 3, and Mile 1 markets, uncovering widespread sales of fake Big Bull Rice. A shop on the YKC axis of Woji was identified as a major distribution hub for the counterfeit product.

During the operation, officials discovered a significant number of empty counterfeit Big Bull Rice bags, along with those of other brands, including Cap Rice, Stallion Rice, Tomato Rice, and Mama Pride. A saleswoman, Ogechi Okafor, was arrested at the scene.

Items recovered from the store included sewing and sealing machines, a generator, a stove, thread, and multiple rebagged rice sacks.

Rivers State NAFDAC Coordinator, Emmanuel Onogwu, outlined key features distinguishing genuine Big Bull Rice, such as a unique shiny ribbon along the threaded top, superior bag quality, and an authentic logo.

Onogwu warned that rebagged rice often comes from questionable sources and may be treated with harmful chemicals to enhance its appearance.

NAFDAC confirmed that over 120 counterfeit rice bags were seized from more than 10 shops and transported to the agency’s Zonal Office for further analysis.