NAFDAC Cracks Down on Counterfeit Rice: Over 120 Fake Bags Seized in Port Harcourt Markets

NAFDAC, in collaboration with the producers of Big Bull Rice, conducted a raid on shops in Woji, Mile 3, and Mile 1 markets in Port Harcourt, uncovering extensive sales of counterfeit Big Bull Rice.

During the operation, a shop on the YKC axis of Woji was identified as a major distribution point for the fake rice. Inside, officials found large quantities of empty counterfeit Big Bull Rice bags alongside other brands such as Cap Rice, Stallion Rice, Tomato Rice, and Mama Pride. A salesgirl, Ogechi Okafor, was apprehended at the scene.

Additional items recovered from the shop included sewing and sealing machines, a generator, a stove, thread, and several bags of rebagged rice.

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Pharm. Emmanuel Onogwu, NAFDAC’s Rivers State Coordinator, highlighted key features distinguishing genuine Big Bull Rice from counterfeit versions: a distinct shiny ribbon across the threaded top, superior bag quality, and an authentic logo. He warned that rebagged rice often originates from questionable sources and may be treated with harmful chemicals, posing serious health risks.

In total, over 120 fake bags of rice were seized from more than ten shops and transported to the NAFDAC Zonal Office for further investigation and enforcement actions.