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Istanbul's Counterfeit Alcohol Crisis Claims 38 Lives, 92 Hospitalized; 29 Tons Seized, 64 Businesses Closed

Jan 16, 2025, 07:53 PM

Istanbul is grappling with a severe crisis involving counterfeit alcohol, which has led to the deaths of 38 people over the past four days. The outbreak of methanol poisoning, linked to the consumption of fake alcohol, has resulted in 92 individuals seeking medical treatment, with 48 still hospitalized, including 27 in critical condition on ventilators. Four patients have been discharged, while two left the hospital without permission, and one refused treatment. The Istanbul Governor's Office has reported the detention of 15 suspects involved in the distribution of counterfeit alcohol, with four charged with premeditated murder. Authorities have seized 29 tons of fake alcohol and revoked the licenses of 64 businesses linked to its sale. The crisis has been traced to establishments run by foreign nationals, including a venue known as 'Türkmen Lokantası,' where fake spirits were sold in plastic bottles for 30 liras each. In response, new measures have been introduced, including mandatory 24/7 high-resolution camera surveillance in establishments selling alcohol and the immediate closure of businesses found selling counterfeit or illegal alcohol.