Pabna, Oct 15 (V7N) – A mobile court of the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection (DNCRP) conducted a raid on Wednesday afternoon at a factory producing counterfeit and harmful energy drinks in Pabna, modeled after the popular beverage brand “Speed.” The raid took place at Lovely Food Industries in the South Raghavpur area of Pabna municipality.

The operation, led by DNCRP Assistant Director Mahmud Hasan Roni, was carried out following allegations that the factory was secretly manufacturing and marketing unlicensed beverages without approval from the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI). During the inspection, authorities discovered a large stock of counterfeit energy drinks labeled “Spider,” designed to mimic the well-known brand “Speed.”

The factory was fined Tk 50,000, and a significant quantity of the fake products was destroyed on-site. The factory owner pledged in writing to cease production, while officials warned that any future violations would lead to more severe legal action.

The operation was conducted with assistance from the Pabna District Ansar Battalion, members of the National Security Intelligence (NSI), and representatives of the Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB). Officials confirmed that similar drives will continue in the interest of public health and consumer safety.

Health experts have expressed serious concern over the harmful effects of such counterfeit beverages. According to nutrition and toxicology specialists, these fake drinks often contain dangerous levels of caffeine, artificial colorings, and chemical preservatives that can severely damage human health.

Dr. Rezaul Karim, a clinical toxicologist, told Voice7 News that regular consumption of unregulated energy drinks can lead to heart palpitations, liver and kidney complications, high blood pressure, and even nervous system disorders. “Most of these counterfeit products are prepared without proper quality control, using cheap and hazardous chemicals that pose a serious threat to public health,” he added.

Public health experts urged consumers to avoid unbranded or unapproved beverages and to always check for BSTI certification before purchasing. They also called for stronger monitoring and legal enforcement to stop the circulation of harmful fake drinks in local markets.

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