Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have arrested two suspected members of a syndicate allegedly involved in the production and distribution of adulterated alcoholic beverages across the state.
The suspects, identified as 42-year-old Ikechukwu Okeke and 38-year-old Okeke Chukwuemeka, were arrested in the early hours of Monday, June 15, 2026, by operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad and VCRU following credible intelligence.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are part of a network engaged in the adulteration and counterfeiting of popular alcoholic brands.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects are members of a syndicate specializing in the adulteration and counterfeiting of various alcoholic beverages,” the statement said.
The police said the suspects allegedly confessed to the crime during interrogation and subsequently led operatives to their illegal production facility.
At the site, officers reportedly recovered several suspected adulterated alcoholic products, including Seaman’s Schnapps, McDowell’s, Eagle Schnapps, Elliot Hot Drinks, and Baileys Fresh Cream, alongside chemicals believed to be used in the production process.
Also recovered were empty bottles, labels, and packaging materials suspected to be used in the ongoing manufacture and distribution of counterfeit drinks.
The Command said the suspects remain in custody while the recovered items have been secured for forensic analysis and evidential purposes.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the operatives for the successful operation and warned against the production and sale of counterfeit consumables.
He cautioned individuals involved in such illegal activities to desist immediately or face the full weight of the law.
The police further disclosed that investigations are ongoing to identify other members of the syndicate and uncover the full extent of their operations within and outside the state.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the development in Awka on June 15, 2026.
