The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, has arrested two women over the alleged production of adulterated fruit juice at an illegal factory in Badagry, Lagos State.

The suspects, aged 48 and 50, were reportedly arrested during a raid on the facility where operatives allegedly found them producing the product branded as “Barkas Juice.”

The NSCDC said the operation followed five days of surveillance and was conducted between Saturday, September 19, and Sunday, September 20, 2026, in collaboration with a Nigerian Army formation in the area.

According to preliminary findings by the Corps, the suspected juice was allegedly produced without real fruit, using water, synthetic flavourings, industrial sweeteners, artificial colourants, preservatives and other chemical additives.

The NSCDC also alleged that the product was being packaged with a fake National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) registration number before being distributed to markets in Lagos, Benin City and other parts of the country.

Items recovered during the operation included a truck, cartons of the suspected adulterated juice, production machinery, chemicals, drums and a gas cylinder, among other materials.

The Lagos State NSCDC Commandant, Adedotun Keshinro, ordered the immediate shutdown of the factory and directed that the suspects be subjected to further investigation.

Keshinro said the Corps would collaborate with NAFDAC and other relevant regulatory agencies as the investigation progresses.

He added that the suspects would face prosecution if found culpable after the completion of investigations.

The NSCDC said the operation formed part of efforts to tackle illegal manufacturing activities and protect consumers from potentially harmful products being produced and distributed without regulatory approval.