Police in Katsina State have arrested a man accused of tampering with expired powdered milk and selling it to unsuspecting consumers in Funtua Local Government Area. The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, was apprehended on June 14 by officers from the Makera Police Division following credible intelligence. Authorities recovered 10 bags of powdered milk believed to be expired and unsafe for human consumption. The investigation revealed that the suspect allegedly mixed the expired milk with genuine products before repackaging it in counterfeit bags and distributing it to the public.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, confirmed the arrest in a statement released on Monday. He explained that the suspect’s actions posed a serious threat to public health and violated food safety regulations. The recovered products have been secured as evidence, and the suspect remains in custody pending further investigation. Sadiq-Aliyu emphasized that the suspect will be formally arraigned in court once the investigation is complete.
The alleged offences are in breach of Sections 152 and 154 of the Penal Code Law 2021 (as amended), which criminalize the sale and adulteration of harmful food and beverages. These sections carry severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines, to deter such dangerous activities. The police statement stressed that no compromise will be made on cases involving food safety and public health.
Commissioner of Police, Ali Umar-Fage, issued a stern warning to traders and business owners against engaging in any form of food adulteration or fraudulent practices. He urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious business activities to the nearest police station. Umar-Fage highlighted that such actions not only endanger lives but also undermine consumer trust in local markets.
The arrest comes amid growing concerns over food safety in Nigeria, where counterfeit and expired goods are often resold in unregulated markets. This incident underscores the need for stricter oversight and public awareness campaigns. Authorities are expected to intensify surveillance in food distribution channels across the state to prevent similar cases.
The case has drawn attention from health advocates and consumers, who are calling for stronger enforcement of food safety laws. As the investigation continues, the police have pledged to ensure justice is served and public health is protected. This arrest serves as a clear message that food fraud will not be tolerated in Katsina State.
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