By: Abdullahi Inuwa
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a 40-year-old man and recovered 120 bottles of suspected adulterated dry gin during an operation in Ikot Ekpene.
The suspect, identified as Ubong Ntiense, a native of Ibiaku Village in Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area and resident along Abak Road, was arrested on September 26, 2026, during a stop-and-search operation.
Police said Ntiense was intercepted at about 1:45 p.m. along Aba Road while allegedly transporting the suspected counterfeit alcoholic beverages to Essien Udim Local Government Area for delivery.
A search of the vehicle and the suspect reportedly led to the recovery of five cartons of dry gin bearing the label “Pointers Special Dry Gin.”
Each carton contained 24 bottles, bringing the total number of recovered bottles to 120.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, preliminary investigation commenced after the suspect and the recovered products were taken to the station.
The Police said the suspect allegedly confessed during interrogation to involvement in the production of the fake alcoholic beverages.
Following information obtained during the investigation, operatives reportedly secured a search warrant and raided the suspect’s residence and premises.
During the search, the Police said they recovered substances and other materials allegedly used in the production of the suspected adulterated drinks.
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, has ordered a thorough investigation to establish the source of the products and identify other individuals or networks allegedly involved in their production, distribution and circulation.
The Command described the circulation of adulterated alcoholic beverages as a serious public safety concern, warning that unsuspecting consumers could be exposed to unknown substances contained in the products.
The Police further warned manufacturers, distributors, retailers and organised networks involved in counterfeit or adulterated alcoholic beverages to stop the practice or face lawful action.
The Command said it would continue to deploy intelligence-led operations, surveillance, stop-and-search activities and other investigative measures to disrupt the circulation of suspected counterfeit alcoholic products across the state.
Residents were also urged to exercise caution when purchasing alcoholic beverages and report suspicious production, transportation or distribution activities to the Police or relevant regulatory authorities.
The suspect remains in Police custody as investigation continues.
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