Counterfeit Alcohol Poisoning Claims 23 Lives in Istanbul

In Istanbul, 23 people have died from counterfeit alcohol poisoning in just 48 hours, with the total number of deaths since January 1 reaching 34. The spike in cases is attributed to methanol-tainted alcohol, which is often cheaper and used in place of ethanol, leading to severe health complications. Authorities have intensified crackdowns on illegal alcohol production, seizing 29 tonnes and shutting down 64 businesses over the past two weeks. Currently, 32 individuals are in intensive care, while several others are hospitalized with symptoms of poisoning. The prevalence of counterfeit alcohol is notable as Turkey's alcohol taxes have risen, driving consumers to seek cheaper, unsafe alternatives. Earlier statistics show that in 2024, 110 people were affected by tainted alcohol, with 48 fatalities reported.