BANGKOK, Thailand – At least six people have died and dozens more have fallen ill after consuming methanol-laced liquor in Thailand, health officials said on Friday.
The incident has prompted a government crackdown on illicit alcohol production and distribution.
The outbreak, centered in the eastern part of Bangkok, has primarily affected low-income communities. Many of the victims were migrant workers or daily laborers who purchased the tainted liquor from local vendors. Public Health Minister summarizes the past week’s cases of methanol poisoning from illicit alcohol: 43 total cases, 6 deaths, 27 recovered and discharged.
Health officials have identified 18 locations in Bangkok where the contaminated liquor was sold. Deputy Public Health Minister Thanakrit Jit-areerat visited one of the affected communities to meet with victims and their families.
The victims reported experiencing fatigue, limb weakness, dizziness, blurred vision and difficulty breathing after consuming the liquor.
Thanakrit announced that the Ministry will cover all medical costs. However, only Thai citizens have sought treatment, raising concerns about migrant workers in the 18-stall cluster where the death toll may exceed six.
Authorities have arrested two men suspected of producing the methanol-laced liquor. Police said the suspects had been selling the contaminated alcohol to local vendors for months. They are working to identify the source of the methanol and hold those responsible accountable.
The government has launched a public awareness campaign to warn people about the dangers of consuming illicit alcohol.
Health officials are urging anyone who has consumed the tainted liquor to seek medical attention immediately. (TNA)
