NEWS
Operation Crush Uncovers Alleged Fake Wine Factory in Aba, Finds Underage Workers
By @TheKELVINATOR, The Eyes Opener News | June 23, 2026
The Abia State Joint Security Task Force, popularly known as Operation Crush, has uncovered an alleged fake wine and beverage production facility operating in a concealed area along the Borrow-Pit axis of Uku Dara, off Obioha Road in Aba.
The operation, which took place on Monday, June 22, 2026, followed credible intelligence reports received by the security team concerning suspicious manufacturing activities at the location.
The facility is alleged to be owned by one Mr. Anigbo Friday Michael, popularly known as Apostle Michael, an indigene of Anambra State.
According to the leader of the operation, security operatives initially met resistance upon arrival at the facility. Despite repeated knocks and requests for access, workers inside allegedly refused to open the gates, forcing the team to gain entry through alternative means.
Upon entering the premises, operatives reportedly made a disturbing discovery. A significant number of the workers found at the facility were underage, with some said to be as young as 13 years old, while others were between 16 and 17 years of age. The discovery has raised concerns over the use of minors in the facility’s operations.
One of the most shocking discoveries made during the raid was a document described as an “Oath of Secrecy,” allegedly signed by workers and staff members. The document reportedly compelled employees to remain silent about the activities and production processes taking place within the facility.
Further inspection of the premises allegedly revealed the production of various brands of wines and drinks under highly unhygienic conditions. Security personnel observed that bottles used for packaging were being washed with contaminated water sourced from nearby gutters, raising serious concerns about public health and consumer safety.
It was also discovered that the owner of the facility was absent during the operation. Information provided by workers suggested that he had stepped out for lunch.
However, when contacted by the security team, Anigbo Friday Michael allegedly claimed that he had travelled out of town, a statement that reportedly contradicted information obtained from those on site.
The raid has once again highlighted the persistent challenge posed by counterfeit food and beverage manufacturers despite ongoing efforts by security agencies and regulatory bodies to eliminate fake products from the market.
Another issue that emerged from the investigation was the claim by the facility owner that he possessed registration and approval from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to produce the whines.
The development has raised serious concerns regarding the inspection and certification process for manufacturing facilities. Given the condition of the production environment allegedly uncovered during the operation, stakeholders are calling for a thorough review to determine whether the facility was properly inspected before any approval or registration was granted.
The discovery has also reignited conversations about child labour, public health risks, and consumer protection, with many calling for stricter enforcement of food and beverage regulations and tougher penalties against individuals involved in the production of counterfeit products.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to determine the full extent of the operation and take appropriate legal action against all individuals found culpable. The operation serves as a strong reminder that the fight against counterfeit food and beverage production remains ongoing, as some operators continue to endanger public health through illicit manufacturing activities hidden from public scrutiny.