Hooch Tragedy in Pune, 14 Killed, Eight Held
29 May 2026 6:43 PM IST29 May 2026 6:43 PM IST
Seven persons died in the Phugewadi area of Pimpri Chinchwad, while five others died in the Pandhare Mala of Pune's Hadapsar after consuming spurious liquor
Bereaved family members mourn after several people died following the consumption of suspected spurious liquor, at Phugewadi area of Pimpri Chinchwad, in Pune district, Maharashtra, Friday, May 29, 2026. (Photo: PTI)
Mumbai: At least 14 persons died after allegedly consuming spurious liquor in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, with several others in critical condition, triggering concern across the region. According to police, the victims had consumed liquor sourced from an illegal den operating in the Dapodi and Fugewadi areas. Soon after consumption, many complained of severe stomach pain, nausea and vomiting. A senior police officer said 10 deaths were reported in Pimpri-Chinchwad and four in Pune district. The case came to light on May 28 under the Dapodi police station limits after reports of multiple deaths in Fugewadi, prompting an investigation.
Preliminary findings indicated that illicit liquor was manufactured in Uruli Kanchan and supplied to Fugewadi and other areas. Police alleged that methanol was added to dilute the alcohol, leading to the deaths.
The Pimpri-Chinchwad police have arrested nine persons, including those allegedly involved in manufacturing, distribution and sale of the liquor. Four of the accused were produced before a court and remanded to police custody till June 8, 2026, while others are to be produced subsequently.
The state excise department has suspended 13 officials, including inspectors, sub-inspectors and constables, for alleged dereliction of duty in failing to curb bootlegging activities.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said eight persons had been arrested so far and more arrests were likely as the investigation progressed. “We have identified the entire ecosystem and are also tracing its wider network. The police and the Excise Department are working together on this case. We will get to its roots and dismantle it,” he said.
“We will trace all the networks and break this chain, as this amounts to murder. Strict sections have been invoked against the accused,” he added, describing the incident as serious and stating that medical assistance was being provided to those undergoing treatment.
Police said viscera samples of the deceased have been sent for chemical analysis and reports are awaited. An FIR has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Maharashtra Prohibition Act.
Several persons who consumed the liquor are undergoing treatment at hospitals in the area.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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