Consumer Alert: Counterfeit Al-miral Luncheon Meat Circulating in Freetown

The National Consumer Protection Commission of Sierra Leone (NCPCSL) has raised alarms over counterfeit Al-miral Chicken Luncheon Meat being sold in Freetown, following a viral social media video that exposed fraudulent practices.

The incident involved a young woman purchasing two large cans of the product for NLe 30 each from street vendors. Upon opening the cans, she discovered a black substance and plastic sachets instead of the expected luncheon meat.

Investigations by the NCPCSL revealed that the counterfeit products are being distributed by rogue individuals who refill empty Al-miral tins to deceive unsuspecting buyers. These activities are predominantly driven by street vendors operating in busy districts such as Abacha Street and Kissy Road.

In a press release issued on December 5, 2024, the NCPCSL confirmed that the genuine Al-miral Chicken Luncheon Meat is imported by Universal Impex of 39A Murray Town Road, Freetown. The Sierra Leone Standards Bureau (SLSB) had conducted extensive quality tests on the product and certified it as meeting all required standards (Certificate of Analysis dated October 31, 2024).

“This forgery is a deliberate attempt to mislead and extort money from the public,” the NCPCSL stated. The Commission emphasized that the counterfeit cans are being sealed with fraudulent methods to mimic the original packaging, a tactic aimed at deceiving consumers in both urban and rural areas.

The NCPCSL has urged the public to exercise caution when purchasing food items, particularly from street vendors. Consumers are advised to buy from reputable shops and supermarkets, where quality assurance and traceability are guaranteed. Complaints regarding fraudulent products can be submitted to the NCPCSL office at 28 Siaka Stevens Street, Freetown, or via telephone at +232-30-080527.

Business owners dealing in authentic Al-miral products, such as Mr. Turay and his partner Sandy, expressed their concern about the ongoing issue. “The counterfeit products are tarnishing the reputation of genuine brands,” Turay said. Sandy added that similar fraudulent activities have also been reported with other food items, such as sardines and Zwan.

The NCPCSL reassures the public of its commitment to consumer safety and market integrity. It encourages consumers to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and only purchase products from trusted sources.