Turkey: At least 33 killed by illegitimate alcohol in Istanbul – Four Arrests · Global Voices

At least 33 people died and 48 others were admitted to hospitals in Istanbul from Monday because of consumption, broadcast Thursday night (16.01). 25) Anadolu news agency. The deaths in Turkey are thought to have been due to the consumption of methanol – a type of industrial alcohol unsuitable for how much. CORVERSE Four persons who bear suspicion of selling the adulterated drinks were arrested and a case for “intentional homicides” is being formed, said last night the authorities of Constantinople in a statement. Since 1 January, 29 tonnes of adulterated or illegal alcoholic beverages have been seized in Istanbul and 64 businesses selling them saw their operating permits revoked, added. Owners of companies trading in alcoholic beverages accuse the Turkish authorities of indirectly responsible for the deaths, because of the high taxes, which encourage illegal drinking. In 2024 48 people died because of the consumption of adulterated alcoholic beverages, according to the principles of Constantinople. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a conservative politician and loyal Muslim accused by opponents of seeking to equalise Turkish public administration and society, has repeatedly taken a public position against consumption of both alcoholic beverages and tobacco products.