At least 14 die after consuming spurious liquor in Amritsar

CHANDIGARH, MAY 13  : At least 14 people have died in five villages in Punjab’s Amritsar after allegedly consuming spurious liquor, police said on Tuesday. A few persons have been arrested in connection with the case.

Police said six people have been hospitalised with complications caused by hooch.

The deaths have occurred in five villages, Bhangali, Patalpuri, Marari Kalan, Therewal and Talwandi Ghuman. Amritsar Deputy Commissioner Sakshi Sawhney confirmed to PTI, the death of 14 people.

Quoting SSP Maninder Singh, ANI reported that authorities received information around 9:30 pm last night about multiple deaths due to the consumption of spurious liquor. “We took immediate action and rounded up four individuals,” Singh said. “We arrested the main supplier, Parabjeet Singh. Upon interrogation, he revealed the name of the kingpin supplier, Sahab Singh. He has also been taken into custody.”

Singh added that investigations are underway to determine the source and distribution channels of the illicit liquor.

“We are currently probing which firms supplied this liquor. The Punjab government has issued strict instructions to take strong action against all those involved. Raids are ongoing, and manufacturers will be rounded up soon.”

Two FIRs have been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Excise Act.

“This tragic incident has claimed 14 lives so far, and six people are currently hospitalised. The incident has impacted five villages,” he added.

-PTI