INTERPOL Rescues 45, FCID Lagos Busts Major Counterfeit and Vandalism Syndicates

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INTERPOL Rescues 45, FCID Lagos Busts Major Counterfeit and Vandalism Syndicates

The detectives of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Lagos are investigating a case of alleged illegal importation and counterfeiting of Baby Secret Cream following a petition by Flawless Cosmetics.

The AIG in charge of the FCID Annex, Mr. Simeon Akpanudom, disclosed this on Thursday while briefing journalists on the department’s operational achievements between March 30 and June 25.

According to the police boss investigators recovered 331 cartons of counterfeit products branded as Baby Secret Cream from a warehouse in the Trade Fair Market area of Lagos.

He noted that, some suspects found in possession of the products have been arrested and are assisting investigators in tracking down the alleged mastermind behind the operation.

The FCID boss further revealed that operatives arrested suspected members of a syndicate involved in vandalising telecommunications installations and other critical infrastructure across Lagos State.

He said several exhibits were recovered from the suspects, including a locally made pistol, a live cartridge, solar batteries, solar panels, cutting tools, ropes, tricycles and vehicles allegedly used in carrying out the criminal activities.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that the recovered items were used in the vandalism of telecommunication installations and other critical infrastructure across Lagos State,” he said.

Akpanudom said efforts were ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate before their prosecution.

The AIG also highlighted the department’s achievements in combating human trafficking and transnational crimes.

He disclosed that INTERPOL operatives attached to the FCID rescued 45 victims of human trafficking during the period under review.

According to him, four human trafficking suspects were arrested, four persons on international watchlists and Red Notices were apprehended, while two suspects arrested abroad were returned to Nigeria.

Akpanudom said the FCID Annex received 1,762 petitions and complaints within the review period, adding that 56 cases had been concluded and processed in various courts.

He reaffirmed the department’s commitment to protecting critical national infrastructure, combating economic crimes and ensuring diligent prosecution of offenders.

The AIG urged members of the public to continue supporting the police with credible and actionable information to enhance crime prevention and improve public safety across the country.