Nagaland Hooch Tragedy: 19 Dead After Suspected Spurious Liquor
The Nagaland hooch tragedy has claimed 19 lives after people allegedly consumed suspected spurious liquor in Mokokchung and Tuensang districts. Police have started a probe into the deaths and the supply of the suspected adulterated liquor.
Eight deaths were reported in Mokokchung. Meanwhile, 11 deaths were reported in Tuensang. The deaths occurred over two days, according to police.
Nagaland Hooch Tragedy Triggers Police Probe
Police have formed a Special Investigation Team to investigate the Nagaland hooch tragedy. The team will trace the source and supply chain of the suspected illicit liquor.
Police have also arrested 19 people in connection with the case. During raids, officers seized nearly 3,000 bottles of liquor. Samples have been sent to Guwahati for forensic examination.
The forensic investigation is important because authorities need to establish what caused the deaths. A report has confirmed methanol in samples from Tuensang. However, further testing is required to determine its concentration.
Police Issue Warning After 19 Deaths
Nagaland has had a prohibition law since 1990. Despite the law, authorities continue to deal with cases involving illicit liquor.
Police have warned people against consuming unidentified, unlabelled or suspected illegal liquor. They have also urged anyone who develops dizziness, blurred vision, breathing problems or loss of consciousness after drinking alcohol to seek medical help immediately.
The investigation is now focused on identifying the source of the suspected liquor and determining the circumstances behind the 19 deaths.
Authorities are expected to take further action after the forensic examination and investigation provide more evidence.
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