A significant development has occurred in the investigation of the toxic liquor incident that resulted in 18 deaths in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified adulterated methanol as the main cause of the fatalities.
Acting on information from the local police, the FDA conducted raids on facilities associated with Shri Rex International, a company with operations in Vashi, Navi Mumbai, and Bhiwandi. During the operation, officials seized 5,929 kilograms of methanol believed to be stored illegally.
The toxic liquor consumed by the victims was reportedly being sold for as little as Rs 30 per bottle. It was found that methanol, a highly toxic industrial chemical, had been mixed with the liquor, resulting in numerous deaths and leaving others critically ill.
Following the discovery, authorities sealed the company’s office and warehouse, confiscating the methanol stock. Notices were issued to the company’s owners, Arun Kumar Chaubey and Abhishek Arun Kumar Chaubey, with steps taken to revoke the firm’s operating license.
The case came to light after a series of deaths in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. As evidence pointed to methanol adulteration, Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe ordered immediate action against those involved in the illegal storage and distribution of the chemical.
Mundhe emphasized a zero-tolerance approach towards anyone jeopardizing public health. He stressed the importance of safe food and medicines as a fundamental right and pledged strict enforcement of relevant laws.
Authorities revealed that the victims had consumed the illicit liquor at a residence in the Phugewadi area. Investigations traced the liquor supply chain back to Shri Rex International, where methanol was sourced.
During a raid on the company’s warehouse, officials recovered nearly six tonnes of methanol. Concerns were raised over the lack of proper records related to the chemical’s storage, purchase, or sale, indicating potential regulatory non-compliance.
The company allegedly failed to maintain required records under the Poisons Act, leading to the seizure and sealing of the entire stock to prevent further misuse. Legal actions have been initiated against the company’s owners under the provisions of the Poisons Act.
Authorities believe prompt action may have averted a larger tragedy and are investigating the existence of similar illegal liquor networks in Maharashtra. Efforts are ongoing to identify all individuals involved in the supply chain linked to the deadly liquor incident.
