The recent hooch tragedy in Pune has resulted in the deaths of fourteen individuals, with numerous others receiving medical treatment. The victims reportedly consumed counterfeit liquor that is believed to have been contaminated with methanol, leading to a serious health crisis in the region. The state authorities are currently focusing on those responsible for the production and distribution of this illicit liquor.

Crackdown on Illicit Liquor Operations

In a significant operation, Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) seized nearly 6,000 kg of industrial methanol from a warehouse in Bhiwandi, Thane district, on May 30, 2026. The seizure occurred as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle the networks behind the distribution of spurious liquor. The warehouse belongs to Rex International, which is alleged to be connected to the supply chain that led to the recent fatalities.

The FDA’s inspection revealed that the warehouse was operating without essential documentation required under the Poisons Act. This included the absence of ledger entries and verification of stock. Consequently, the FDA sealed the premises and confiscated the entire quantity of methanol to prevent further misuse.

Two individuals, Arun Kumar Choubey and Abhishek Asan Kumar Choubey, who own the warehouse, have been taken into custody by the State Excise Department. Police reports indicate that they are part of a broader network that encompasses several alleged suppliers and bootleggers involved in the distribution of the contaminated liquor.

Ongoing Investigations and Arrests

The investigation into the tragedy has led to the arrest of at least eight individuals, including certain alleged suppliers and bootleggers. Among those apprehended are 73-year-old Karnelsingh Takhtsingh Virka and several others, who are charged with serious offences, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder. The police are actively gathering evidence and have stated that additional arrests may follow as the investigation progresses.

Four of the detained individuals are in police custody until June 8, as authorities continue to probe the connections within the illicit liquor trade. The focus of the investigation is reportedly on the supply chain that has led to the distribution of the hazardous substance throughout local communities.

The Maharashtra government has shifted the investigation to the Crime Investigation Department (CID) to ensure a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. The Chief Minister has condemned the incident as “very serious” and has indicated that the authorities are working diligently to identify and dismantle the entire ecosystem linked to the illegal liquor network.

Impact and Community Response

The aftermath of the tragedy has left the communities of Phugewadi and Hadapsar in mourning, as families gather to grieve their losses. Local officials are taking immediate action to secure the area and prevent further incidents related to the illegal liquor trade. Victims of methanol poisoning are being monitored in hospitals, with doctors noting symptoms that include severe respiratory issues and unconsciousness, indicative of the dangers posed by the toxic substance.

The police are also looking into available CCTV footage from locations associated with the consumption of the contaminated liquor as part of their investigation. Samples from the deceased have been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory for further analysis to confirm the exact cause of death and establish the full scale of the crisis.

This tragic incident underscores ongoing concerns regarding the production and sale of illegal liquor in Maharashtra, as authorities ramp up efforts to address the public health risks involved with such activities. The situation is developing, and officials remain committed to ensuring the safety of the community and enforcing the law against illicit liquor operations.

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