18th September, 2015
Paul Iyoghojie
A suspected producer of different brands of fake alcoholic drinks at Oke Arin market, Lagos Island, western Nigeria,has been arraigned before a Lagos Magistrates’ Court.
The accused, Chukwudi Obikem, according to investigation, was ordered arrested by the Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP, Suleiman Dogo in charge of Area ‘A’ Command, Lion Building, Lagos Island, following complaints by concerned members of the public.
Items allegedly recovered from the accused, according to investigation, include cartons of Remy Martins, Jack Daniels, Hennessey and Red Label drinks which he allegedly displayed for sale at Oke Arin market, Lagos Island.
The accused, from eastern Nigeria, was arraigned before an Igbosere Magistrates’ court on a two-count charge of felony to wit, adulteration of alcoholic drinks inside market.
The police prosecutor, Inspector Ingobo Emby, informed the court that the accused and others now at large committed the offence on 14 September, 2015 at Oke Arin Market, Lagos Island.
Emby told the court that the accused was arrested following complaints by concerned members of the public that the accused was using harmful chemical to produce fake Remmy Martins, Jack Daniels, Hennessey and Red Label drinks inside Oke Arin market.
He noted that the offences the accused committed were punishable under sections 409 and 158(a) of the criminal laws of Lagos State, 2011.
The accused, however, denied the police allegations in the open court and his counsel, Bar. Jude J. Ozemhoya, prayed the court to admit his client to bail on the most liberal terms with a promise that he will not jump bail.
Chief Magistrate A. O. Awogboro admitted the accused to bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties in like sum, one of whom must be a blood relation.
She adjourned the case till 15 October, 2015 for mention.
The defendant was taken to Ikoyi Prison pending when he will perfect his bail conditions.