By Gwurld4026 
Methanol Poisoning in Turkey: A Devastating Event Resulting in 33 Deaths and Numerous Hospitalizations
In mid-January 2025, Istanbul experienced a tragic outbreak of methanol poisoning resulting in at least 33 deaths and over 80 hospitalizations, with 31 individuals requiring intensive care.
The poisonings were linked to the consumption of illegally produced alcoholic beverages containing methanol, a toxic substance often used as a cheaper alternative to ethanol in bootleg alcohol.
In response, Turkish authorities arrested four individuals suspected of distributing the tainted alcohol, charging them with “intentional homicide.”
Additionally, law enforcement seized 29 tons of bootleg alcohol and revoked the licenses of 64 businesses involved in the sale of counterfeit or smuggled alcoholic products.
This incident follows a similar tragedy in late 2024, where 48 people in Istanbul died after consuming methanol-laced alcohol.
The recurrence of such poisonings has been attributed to high taxes on legal alcoholic beverages, leading consumers to seek more affordable, illicit alternatives.
Critics argue that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s stringent anti-alcohol policies and heavy taxation have inadvertently contributed to the proliferation of unsafe, illegal alcohol.
Methanol poisoning is highly dangerous, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, altered consciousness, and chest pain. Severe cases can result in permanent visual and neurological impairments or death.
Travelers and residents are advised to exercise caution, avoiding homemade or unregulated alcoholic beverages, and to seek immediate medical attention if methanol poisoning is suspected.