Police raid fake drug factory in Lagos, hunt for mastermind

Lagos State Police Command has uncovered a clandestine fake pharmaceutical operation in the Ojo area of the state.

The police exposed a major illegal drug-manufacturing network operating from the top floor of a multi-storey building.

The discovery was made on Wednesday during an enforcement operation personally led by the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh.

During the raid, officers recovered large quantities of counterfeit pharmaceutical products, including fake malaria medications, syringes, and other unregistered medical supplies.

Addressing journalists at the scene, CP Jimoh disclosed that investigators had launched an intensive manhunt for the suspected sponsor of the illegal enterprise, identified simply as ‘One Developer.’

He immediately ordered the sealing of the facility, warning Lagos residents of the grave dangers posed by the circulation of fake drugs.

According to him, the recovered items were “injurious to the lives of thousands of unsuspecting people.”

CP Jimoh also revealed that the syndicate used sophisticated machines not only to manufacture counterfeit drugs but also to alter expiry dates on expired products, thereby reintroducing them into the market.

“We are currently searching for a key individual known as ‘One Developer,’ believed to be the financier and mastermind behind this criminal operation. Our investigation will not stop at this building. We will pursue every link connected to this illegal business,” he said.

He added that the police would be collaborating with NAFDAC and other regulatory agencies to ensure full prosecution of all suspects and the enforcement of necessary legal actions.

One security guard found on the premises during the operation was arrested and is currently assisting with the investigation.

The Commissioner urged members of the public to purchase medicines only from authorised pharmacies and to carefully verify manufacturing and expiry dates before use.