By Seun Ibiyemi
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, has arrested two women over the alleged production of adulterated “Barkas Juice” at an illegal factory in Badagry, Lagos State.
The suspects, aged 48 and 50, were arrested during an operation conducted by NSCDC operatives between Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026, following five days of surveillance.
The operation was carried out in collaboration with a Nigerian Army formation in the area, with the suspects reportedly caught while allegedly producing the beverage.
According to the Corps, preliminary investigations showed that the suspected juice was produced using water, synthetic flavourings, industrial sweeteners, artificial colourants, preservatives and other chemical additives, allegedly without real fruit.
NSCDC also alleged that the product was being packaged with a fake National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) registration number and distributed to markets in Lagos, Benin City and other parts of the country.
Items recovered during the operation included a truck, cartons of the suspected adulterated juice, production machinery, chemicals, drums and a gas cylinder.
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Following the discovery, the NSCDC Lagos State Commandant, Adedotun Keshinro, ordered the immediate shutdown of the factory.
Keshinro said the suspects would remain subject to further investigation and prosecution in accordance with the law.
He added that the Corps would collaborate with NAFDAC and other relevant regulatory and security agencies to investigate the alleged production and distribution of the adulterated beverage.
The NSCDC said the operation was part of its efforts to tackle illegal manufacturing activities and protect members of the public from potentially harmful products.
