Seventeen people have died, and dozens remain hospitalised in Istanbul following widespread counterfeit alcohol poisoning. Authorities have launched a city-wide crackdown, seizing thousands of litres of bootleg alcohol amid growing fears of further fatalities with New Year’s Eve approaching.
The death toll has steadily risen since initial reports last week indicated three fatalities. Currently, 22 individuals are receiving treatment for symptoms of methanol poisoning, with their conditions reportedly worsening despite ongoing medical care.
Methanol, a cheaper but highly toxic substitute for ethanol, is often added to counterfeit alcohol, making it lethal for human consumption.
Police operations have been intensified across Istanbul to combat the production and distribution of fake alcohol. Raids have been conducted in several districts, including Kagithane, Esenyurt, Umraniye, Uskudar, Sultangazi, and Bakirkoy.
In one incident in Beyoğlu, undercover officers posing as customers apprehended a suspect selling counterfeit alcohol while on a motorcycle. Large quantities of bootleg alcohol intended for distribution were seized during the operation.
Authorities have detained 19 people in connection with these cases, with eight facing charges. Investigations have so far resulted in the seizure of 410 litres of ethyl and methyl alcohol and the dismantling of six illicit distilleries.
This incident follows similar tragedies elsewhere, including in Laos earlier this year, where methanol poisoning claimed six lives, including a British tourist.
Turkey’s Trade Ministry data revealed that over 7,386 litres of counterfeit alcohol were seized nationwide in 2023. Officials are urging the public to purchase alcohol only from trusted sources and to report any suspicious activities to help prevent further loss of life. The ongoing investigation seeks to curb the circulation of deadly counterfeit alcohol as holiday celebrations near.
