In a significant crackdown on counterfeit pharmaceuticals, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) uncovered a cache of weapons concealed within the Ogbo-Ogwu Drug Market at the Onitsha Bridgehead in Anambra State.  The discovery included rifles, live cartridges, machetes, and daggers, believed to have been hidden by individuals involved in the distribution of fake drugs with the intent to attack enforcement officials.  

The operation, which commenced on February 10, 2025, led to the seizure of 50 trailer loads of counterfeit and substandard drugs.  These illicit products have been transported to NAFDAC laboratories for further analysis.  

Dr. Martins Iluyomade, NAFDAC’s South-East Zonal Director, expressed concern over the lengths to which counterfeit drug dealers would go to protect their illegal activities.  He noted that several individuals attempting to retrieve the seized drugs or interfere with the operation have been arrested and are currently providing valuable information to authorities.  

NAFDAC has acknowledged the cooperation of market leaders during the enforcement exercise and has announced plans to reopen certain sections of the market as the agency progresses to the next phase of its operation.

This development underscores the challenges faced by regulatory bodies in combating the distribution of counterfeit drugs and highlights the need for continued vigilance and collaboration to safeguard public health.