Police and excise authorities in Pune district have intensified investigations into a suspected illicit liquor network after 18 people died within 48 hours allegedly due to consuming methanol-laced alcohol. The deaths were reported from multiple locations across Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad, triggering a large-scale probe into the supply and distribution of toxic country-made liquor in the region.

According to officials, 13 deaths were recorded in the Phugewadi and Dapodi areas of Pimpri-Chinchwad, while five others occurred in Hadapsar and Kalepadal in Pune. Investigators initially believed some of the deaths were linked to unrelated illnesses, but authorities later identified common symptoms among the victims, including severe dizziness, vomiting and intense abdominal pain, which are considered early indicators of alcohol poisoning.

Following the receipt of post-mortem reports, police began registering cases under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to culpable homicide not amounting to murder and causing harm through toxic substances, along with sections of the Maharashtra Prohibition Act. Officials suspect the liquor had been deliberately mixed with methanol, a highly toxic industrial chemical that can cause blindness, organ failure and death when consumed.

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A man identified as Yogesh Wankhede has emerged as a key accused in the case and was arrested after surrendering before authorities. Investigators allege he supplied the adulterated liquor across Pune city and Pimpri Chinchwad. Atul Kanade, Superintendent of Police in the State Excise Department, said preliminary findings indicate methanol was intentionally mixed into the liquor before distribution. Authorities are now questioning the accused to identify others linked to the suspected network.

Vinay Chaube said that apart from Wankhede, five accused are currently in police custody, while two others remain in the custody of the excise department. The case has since been transferred to the Crime Branch for a broader investigation into the illegal liquor trade operating in the affected localities. Residents of Dapodi, Phugewadi and Hadapsar have alleged that illicit country liquor sales had been taking place openly for an extended period without adequate enforcement action.

The incident has sparked strong reactions from grieving families and state authorities. Family members of victims described how several men began vomiting and suffering severe stomach pain shortly after consuming the liquor. Devendra Fadnavis has taken note of the tragedy and directed police officials in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad to take strict action against those responsible. The chief minister has also ordered a detailed investigation to ensure that all individuals connected to the illicit liquor racket are identified and prosecuted.

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