NSCDC raids alleged unlicensed juice plant in Lagos and arrests two women

Officials of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps have raided an alleged illegal fruit-juice factory in Badagry, Lagos State, and arrested two female suspects, Channels Television reports. The operation took place at a property on Talabi Onilegbale Street in Aradagun, within the Olorunda Local Council Development Area, according to NSCDC officials. The raid was conducted after operatives encountered resistance from youths in the area, the officials said.

The corps said the products, branded “Barkas Juice”, were being produced, sold and distributed from the site. A video showed a truck loaded with the products, cartons of drinks and rolls of labels inside the building. Part of the property was being used as a residence.

NSCDC officials also pointed to a dirty well and an unclean industrial storage tank, alleging that the well was used to obtain water for production. They said the products contained sugar, water, additives, dyes and colours, and that the name “Barkas” could not be found on the NAFDAC portal during a check. The corps alleged that children aged 15 and 16 were recruited to work at the factory.

The two arrested women were said to be between 48 and 50 years old. One suspect told Channels Television that production took place three or four times a year and that the business had operated for about 20 years. NSCDC said the products were supplied beyond Lagos, including to Edo State and other parts of Nigeria.

It said further information would be released and that the matter would be charged in court.