NAFDAC Uncovers Weapons Cache in Drug Market Amid Crackdown on Counterfeit Drugs
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has made a startling discovery in its ongoing crackdown on fake and substandard drugs in the Onitsha Drug Market, Bridge Head, Anambra State. During a security sweep, officials recovered two rifles, live cartridges, machetes, and other weapons hidden by unknown individuals within the market.
The discovery, announced on Wednesday, comes as NAFDAC intensifies efforts to rid the market of counterfeit pharmaceuticals. Since February 10, 2025, the agency has maintained a strong presence at the market, enforcing its shutdown to sanitize the drug trade.
Speaking to journalists in Onitsha, NAFDAC’s Director General, Professor Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, expressed shock over the weapons find, suggesting it might have been linked to an assassination attempt on Dr. Martins Iluyomade, the agency’s South-East Zonal Director. Adeyeye, who was represented by Iluyomade, disclosed that the official regularly conducted debriefings at the exact location where the weapons were stashed.
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In addition to uncovering the arms, security operatives foiled two separate attempts by hoodlums trying to infiltrate the storage facility housing seized counterfeit drugs. Two suspects were apprehended while attempting to breach the premises.
Adeyeye assured the public that the enforcement operation remains a national duty aimed at protecting public health rather than targeting any individuals or groups.
“With the prompt intervention of our security team, we recovered daggers, machetes, and two rifles. Every night, there have been attempts to break into the market, and several individuals have been arrested and are currently providing useful information,” she said.
Commending market leaders for their cooperation, Adeyeye revealed that some sections of the market would be reopened within the week as the next phase of the operation begins. She further noted that over fifty trailer loads of counterfeit drugs had been removed from the market and relocated for further action.
NAFDAC’s ongoing efforts underscore the agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health by eliminating illicit drugs and reinforcing security in pharmaceutical trade hubs across the country.
By PRNigeria
