NSCDC shuts down fake juice factory in Lagos, arrests two women

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Lagos State Command, has shut down an illegal factory in Badagry, Lagos State. This factory was producing fake fruit juice called “Barkas Juice.” Two women, aged 48 and 50, were arrested because of this operation.

Oluwaseun Abolurin, the command’s Public Relations Officer, shared this news in a statement on Monday. He said the suspects were caught after five days of watching the factory with help from a Nigerian Army unit in the area.

The NSCDC found that the juice was loaded with sugar, water, colorants, dyes, and additives. There was no real fruit in the juice at all. The Corps said the juice was made in a very dirty environment and sold in markets across Lagos, Benin City in Edo State, and other regions.

They also noted that the product had a NAFDAC registration number, 01-2166L, which they suspect is fake. The statement said, “The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Lagos State Command, today, Monday, 21st September, 2026, paraded two female suspects (names withheld) between the ages of 48 and 50 linked to the production of fake fruit juice known as ‘Barkas Juice.’

“Fake fruit juice production involves mixing water, synthetic chemical flavourings, industrial sweeteners, artificial colourants, and chemical preservatives while completely omitting real fruit.”

The lead suspect admitted that her grandmother started the business as a water production venture. She said it later changed to make Barkas fruit juice, which she took over about 20 years ago.

During the raid, officials recovered a truck, cartons of Barkas fruit juice, machines, chemicals, drums, and a gas cylinder. This operation took place between 9 p.m. on Saturday and midnight on Sunday.

The Corps also mentioned that the juice contained harmful ingredients. They warned that drinking fake products like this juice could lead to serious health issues, including Type 2 diabetes and liver and kidney failure.

This incident comes at a time when many are worried about the spread of fake and low-quality food, drugs, cosmetics, and other products in Nigeria.

Adedotun Keshinro, the Lagos State NSCDC Commandant, said the suspects will face further investigation and legal action. He ordered that the unregistered factory be shut down immediately to stop the fake products from reaching more people.

Keshinro promised that the command will work with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and other relevant agencies to make sure justice is served.