ANKARA, Turkey — Over the past three days, Istanbul has witnessed a tragic rise in fatalities, with at least 30 individuals reportedly losing their lives after consuming illicit alcohol, according to Turkey’s state news agency. This alarming outbreak has prompted local authorities to ramp up efforts against the distribution of counterfeit alcoholic beverages.
Authorities noted that around 80 individuals sought medical care in various hospitals throughout Istanbul, with a significant number of them, at least 31, currently receiving treatment in intensive care units. The increase in incidents related to tainted alcohol has become a concerning issue in Turkey, especially as the costs of legitimate alcohol continue to surge.
Many citizens, faced with soaring prices, have turned to inexpensive alternatives or homemade spirits, thereby heightening the danger of poisoning from harmful substances. The escalating inflation rates coupled with higher government-imposed taxes have contributed to pushing alcohol prices to unprecedented levels.
On Wednesday, law enforcement apprehended six individuals suspected of selling these counterfeit products. Additionally, two suspects faced charges of “deliberate murder,” as announced by the Istanbul governor’s office. Since the beginning of the year, authorities have confiscated approximately 29 tons of illegal alcohol during various raids across Istanbul and have suspended the licenses of 64 establishments accused of selling fake or smuggled drinks.
The governor’s statement expressed grave concern, declaring that those responsible for the deaths of numerous citizens through the production or sale of counterfeit alcohol are viewed as similar to terrorists who claim lives through violence. It assured the public that the crackdown on those exploiting public safety for profit would remain relentless.
In light of these incidents, the British Foreign Office recently issued a travel advisory for British nationals visiting Turkey, alerting them to the growing number of fatalities linked to counterfeit alcohol.
