…Suspects To Be Handed Over To NAFDAC
Two suspects Akhayera Collins and Christian John arrested by the Police at Eligbolo Road, Rumuokoro in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area for allegedly engaging in the manufacturing of fake drinks are to be transferred to National Agency For Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for further investigation since the Police may not have the technical competency in issues of adulterated or fake drinks, our reporter gathered.
A senior Police officer who spoke to our reporter on condition of anonymity disclosed that there must be result from certified laboratory indicating that the drinks are adulterated or fake to ensure effective prosecution.
The source explained that the Police will hand over the suspects and exhibits to NAFDAC that has the statutory mandate to combat adulterated drugs, drinks and food.
The spokesperson of Rivers State Police command, SP Nnamdi Omoni, was yet to respond to text message sent by our reporter to him on the development.
Meanwhile SP Nnamdi Omoni in a press briefing last Monday disclosed that on 22/10/2021 at about 1530hrs operatives of Puff Adder, acting on credible information, led by the Commander SP Noble Uwoh stormed a hideout at Eligbolo Road Rumuokoro, where they bust a syndicate that engaged in the manufacture of fake drinks believed to be dangerous to public health.
SP Omoni revealed that in the course of the operation, two suspects were arrested, namely: Akhayera Collins (Male) 41yrs and Christian John (male), while others took to flight.
SP Omoni listed exhibits recovered to include; assorted wines, spirits and several alcoholic beverages; including empty bottles waiting to be filled with the poisonous liquid/substances.
SP Omoni added the suspects has made useful confessions and will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
