19 dead in Nagaland across two days after drinking spurious liquor; SIT formed, 19 arrested
Eight deaths were reported in Mokokchung district, while 11 people died in Tuensang district after allegedly consuming illicit liquor.
PTC News Desk: Police have formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the deaths and find out where the suspected adulterated liquor came from. Nagaland has had a prohibition law in place since 1990.
Eight deaths were reported in Mokokchung district, while 11 people died in Tuensang district after allegedly consuming illicit liquor.
Senior Superintendent of Police Vesupra Kezo said the SIT, headed by Additional Superintendent of Police I Bunglang Chang, will investigate the deaths and trace the source and supply chain of the suspected adulterated liquor. Samples have been sent to Guwahati for forensic tests to determine the exact cause of the deaths.
Police have also conducted several raids, arrested 19 people and seized nearly 3,000 bottles of liquor.
Authorities have advised people not to consume unidentified, unlabelled or suspected illicit liquor. Anyone experiencing dizziness, blurred vision, breathing problems or loss of consciousness after drinking alcohol has been advised to seek medical attention immediately.