At least 19 people have died in Istanbul after consuming bootleg alcohol laced with methanol, with dozens more receiving treatment for poisoning, according to Anadolu news agency. The death toll, which increased from 11 earlier this week, follows the revelation by the Istanbul Governor’s Office that 110 people were poisoned by tainted alcohol in 2024, resulting in 48 fatalities.
Methanol, a highly toxic substance often added to illicit alcohol to boost potency, is believed to be the cause of these tragic deaths. Methanol poisoning can lead to severe health issues, including blindness, liver damage, and even death. Alcohol-related poisoning has become a persistent issue in Turkey, where the illegal production of alcohol has surged due to high taxes on legitimate alcoholic beverages.
Also Read: Deadly Gas Explosion Traps Twelve Miners in Balochistan
Raki, Turkey’s national liquor, is the most commonly counterfeited drink, now costing approximately 1,300 Turkish lira ($37) per liter in supermarkets. Critics of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s administration argue that the high taxes and policies aimed at discouraging alcohol consumption have worsened the problem, especially as many Turks, with a minimum wage of 17,000 lira ($480), are turning to cheaper, dangerous alternatives in an attempt to cope.
The crisis highlights the risks posed by the illegal alcohol market, as more citizens are jeopardizing their health in search of affordable options amidst the ongoing economic challenges.
