The Delta State Police Command has arrested a 67-year-old woman, Lydia Osanebi, for allegedly producing and distributing counterfeit alcoholic drinks in Ughelli area of the state.
The suspect was picked up during a police operation carried out on December 14, 2025, following intelligence reports on the production of fake and potentially harmful beverages within the community.
Large quantities of suspected adulterated drinks and chemicals believed to be dangerous were recovered during the operation, raising concerns over public health and safety.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Friday.
“On 14th December 2025, at about 0730hrs, operatives of the Eagle Net Special Squad, Ughelli Surveillance Team, acting on credible intelligence, executed a search warrant at the residence and premises of one Lydia Osanebi, female, aged 67 years, of 14th Street, Otor-Edor, Ughelli, Delta State.
“During the search, operatives recovered large quantities of dangerous chemicals suspected to include methanol, formalin and cochineal (carminic acid), alongside empty and newly printed seals and packaging materials of various brands of dry gin.
“Also recovered were over sixty (60) litres of suspected counterfeited and adulterated dry gin, super glue, stickers and shot glasses. The suspect was arrested and, during interrogation, voluntarily confessed to producing and repackaging adulterated dry gin using recycled original bottles for over twenty (20) years.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that methanol, one of the recovered substances, is highly toxic and capable of causing severe health complications, including organ failure, permanent blindness, coma and death.
“Investigation is ongoing to determine the scope of distribution and identify other persons involved.”