By Adesakin Adefemi
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested two men allegedly behind the production and distribution of adulterated alcoholic drinks in the state. The suspects were picked up in the early hours of Monday by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad following credible intelligence.
Confirming the arrest, the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, identified the suspects as Ikechukwu Okeke, 42, and Okeke Chukwuemeka, 38. He said they are currently in police custody while exhibits recovered from them have been secured for forensic examination.
According to Ikenga, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are members of a syndicate specialising in the adulteration and counterfeiting of various alcoholic beverages. The operation was carried out after the police received credible information about their activities.
During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed to the crime and led operatives to their mini-factory. At the facility, police recovered several suspected adulterated alcoholic products, including Seaman’s Schnapps, McDowell’s, Eagle Schnapps, Elliot Hot Drinks and Baileys Fresh Cream.
Officers also found dangerous chemicals allegedly used in the production process. Other items recovered include numerous empty bottles, labels and other packaging materials intended for continued manufacture of the counterfeit drinks.
The police said the exhibits have been secured for evidential purposes as investigation continues. Ikenga noted that the command is working to identify and apprehend other members of the syndicate and uncover the extent of their operations.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the operatives for the successful operation. He warned individuals engaged in the production and distribution of counterfeit consumable products to desist or face the full weight of the law.
The arrest comes amid growing concerns over fake alcoholic drinks in circulation across the South-East. Health officials have repeatedly warned that adulterated alcohol containing dangerous chemicals poses serious risks to consumers, including poisoning and death.
Police authorities urged residents to report suspicious production or sales of alcoholic beverages to the nearest station. They said public cooperation is critical to dismantling syndicates that profit from endangering public health.
