The Edo State Consumer Protection Committee (ESCPC) has raised an alarm over alleged extortion of sachet gin dealers by fraudsters posing as committee officials.

The committee said it had received reports that some unscrupulous persons were moving around and collecting money from sellers of the banned product, allegedly exploiting the two-week extension granted to the Association of Beverages Dealers.

In a public alert signed by its Chairman, Mr Iyamu Osaro Culture, and the three zonal coordinators, the committee said the extension runs until September 20, 2026.

The committee stressed that enforcement has not commenced, warning dealers and members of the public against giving money to anyone claiming to be acting on its behalf.

It urged members of the public to apprehend and report anyone found posing as a committee official to extort sachet gin dealers.

The committee advised anyone with complaints or information about suspected fraudsters to call 08072370252.

The alert was also signed by Mrs Osaghae Sweet Oghogho, Edo South Coordinator; Mr Eshesimua Sunday Charles, Edo North Coordinator; and Mr Audu Solomon, Edo Central Coordinator.