According to Türkiye’s Ministry of Interior, the victims consumed drinks containing methanol, a toxic substance often used in illegal alcohol production to cut costs. Methanol consumption can cause severe poisoning, blindness, and even death, even in small amounts.
Authorities have launched a large-scale operation to trace the sources of the counterfeit alcohol. Eight suspects have been detained in Istanbul, six are under judicial control, and 11 have been released.
Cases of poisoning have been reported in the districts of Şişli, Beyoğlu, Fatih, Kağıthane, Esenyurt, Sultangazi, Bakırköy, Üsküdar, and Ümraniye. Out of 46 individuals seeking medical assistance, 17 have died, 7 have recovered, and 22 are still receiving treatment.
Türkiye’s government urges citizens to avoid counterfeit alcohol and to purchase beverages only from trusted vendors. Officials also encourage reporting suspicious activities to the relevant authorities immediately.
