Turkey is grappling with a devastating crisis as a surge in bootleg alcohol consumption has led to the tragic deaths of over 100 people in Ankara and Istanbul. Authorities are warning citizens to avoid illicit alcohol as the death toll climbs and investigate the source of the poisoned drinks.
Turkey has issued a dire warning to its citizens, urging them to avoid bootleg alcohol after a horrifying 103 deaths were reported in Ankara and Istanbul since the start of the year. Authorities have expressed alarm over the rising death toll, directly linking it to an alarming surge in the sale of counterfeit alcohol disguised as well-known brands. The situation in Istanbul is particularly grim, with 70 fatalities recorded since January 14th, according to NTV.
In Ankara, the capital city, 33 deaths have been attributed to poisoned alcohol since January 1st, as confirmed by Ankara governor Vasip Sahin. Adding to the tragic figures, another 230 individuals have been hospitalized across both cities due to the consumption of contaminated alcohol, with a staggering 40 in critical condition. The crisis stems from a confluence of factors. In recent years, alcohol prices in Turkey have skyrocketed due to stringent taxes imposed by President Tayyip Erdogan's ruling AK Party, which is rooted in Islamist ideology. The Quran explicitly condemns intoxicants, including gambling, as vices instigated by Satan to divert individuals from Allah, and alcohol consumption is generally prohibited. Furthermore, alcohol manufacturers in Turkey have faced increasing challenges from heavy taxes and restrictive regulations. These relentless financial burdens have compelled many consumers and businesses to seek out cheaper alternatives, turning towards bootleg alcohol and homemade concoctions. This shift towards illicit alcohol has unfortunately created a breeding ground for adulteration and poisoning incidents. Authorities are scrambling to combat the crisis. A recent tax hike on alcohol and tobacco products, implemented on January 3rd, has further fueled the black market. The Istanbul governor's office has announced measures to combat bootlegging, including mandatory inspections and the installation of surveillance cameras at alcohol distribution outlets. Law enforcement has made significant strides, arresting 13 individuals in Ankara and 11 in Istanbul in connection with the poisonings. A massive 102 tons of methanol and ethanol were seized in Ankara, while another 86,000 liters of illicit or smuggled alcohol were confiscated in Istanbul
Turkey Alcohol Poisoning Bootleg Alcohol Deaths Ankara Istanbul Taxes Crime
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Alabama Basketball Crushes Vanderbilt in Dominant 103-85 VictoryThe Crimson Tide bounced back from their loss to Ole Miss with a powerful performance against Vanderbilt, showcasing their bench strength and offensive firepower.
Read more »
Dasung's Paperlike 103: A Compact E Ink Monitor with a 60Hz Refresh RateDasung's latest E Ink monitor, the Paperlike 103, breaks new ground with a 60Hz refresh rate, offering a smoother experience for tasks like scrolling and video playback. This compact 10.3-inch monitor aims to bridge the gap between the benefits of E Ink (reduced eye strain, low power consumption) and the responsiveness of LCD and OLED screens.
Read more »
Jaren Jackson scores 28, Zach Edey adds 19; Grizzlies win 6th straight, 125-103 over JazzJaren Jackson Jr. scored 28 points, Zach Edey added 19 points and five blocks and the Memphis Grizzlies won their sixth straight by beating the Utah Jazz 125-10
Read more »
Wizards beat Timberwolves 105-103 to end 16-game losing streakKyle Kuzma scored a season-high 31 points and the Washington Wizards beat the short-handed Minnesota Timberwolves 105-103 on Saturday night to end a 16-game losing streak. Jordan Poole scored 19 points, Bilal Coulibaly had 14 and Jonas Valanciunas added 13 points and 10 rebounds to help Washington win for the seventh time this season.
Read more »
Former Warrior Wiggins scores 11 in Miami debut as Heat fall 103-85 to CelticsFormer Warriors standout Wiggins shoots 3 of 12, including 2 of 8 on 3-pointers, on his way to an 11-point night in his Miami debut.
Read more »
103-year-old widow with no living family members receives 1,700 birthday cards: 'People have been so kind'103-year-old receives thousands of birthday cards from strangers
Read more »