NAFDAC Raids Rivers Market, Seizes 120 Counterfeit Bags of Rice
Prince Woke
National Food and Drug Administrative Control (NAFDAC), in collaboration with makers of Big Bull Rice, raided shops in Woji, Mile 3, and Mile 1 markets in Port Harcourt on Thursday, March 20, 2025, uncovering about 120 counterfeit bags of rice.
The NAFDAC Rivers State Coordinator, Pharm. Emmanuel Onugwu said a shop on the YKC axis of Woji was identified as a distribution point for the fake rice.
“officials discovered large quantities of empty counterfeit Big Bull Rice bags along with other rice brands such as Cap Rice, Stallion Rice, Tomato Rice, and Mama Pride.
” A salesgirl, identified as Ogechi Okafor, was apprehended at the scene.
“Other items recovered from the shop included sewing and sealing machines, a generator, a stove, thread, and several bags of already re-bagged rice,” Onogwu said.
The NAFDAC Rivers State Coordinator highlighted key features distinguishing the original Big Bull Rice from counterfeit versions, including a distinct shiny ribbon across the threaded top, superior bag quality, and an authentic logo.
He warned that re-bagged rice often comes from questionable sources and may be treated with harmful chemicals to enhance its appearance.
At press time, a total of 120 bags of rice were transported to the NAFDAC Zonal office for investigation.
