NAFDAC Apprehends Men Who Produce Fake Derica Tomato Paste, Maxiquine Syrup

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and
Control on Friday said it had arrested five suspects for alleged sale of
expired products. NAFDAC’s Director-General, Paul Orhii, who was represented by
Kingsley Ejiofor, Head of Investigation and Enforcement Directorate, made the
disclosure in Lagos. He told a news conference that the suspects were arrested
following an intelligence report weeks ago.

According to him, one Charles Onyekachi was arrested for an
alleged counterfeiting of Derica Tomato paste, adding that the product was discovered
in Kano and traced to Lagos. Continue…

“Onyekachi imported 1x20ft. container from China and shipped
to Cotonou, Benin Republic from where it was transported to Kano.

“He has registered products with the agency among which is
the Tomatoes paste.

“He now sells his registered brand along with the
counterfeit to discredit the popular Derica Tomatoe Paste with an intent to
gain market space.

“The quantity and value of the counterfeit released into the
market is four times that of his own brand. The counterfeit product is worth N8
million.

“A criminal charge has been filed against him at the Federal
High Court, Lagos,” he said.

He also disclosed the agency also arrested two suspects,
Tochukwu Ozala and Obiora Ochuba for production, distribution and sale of
counterfeit Maxiquine Syrup.