The Crime Investigation Department (CID) has taken over the probe into the Pune hooch tragedy, following the seizure of 5,929 kilograms of methanol by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The methanol was being used in the production of spurious liquor that led to multiple deaths in the Pune region.
FDA Raids Bhiwandi Premises
On Saturday, the FDA conducted a raid on the premises of Rex International in Bhiwandi, a suburb of Mumbai. The firm was found to be in possession of large quantities of methanol without proper documentation. During the raid, the company failed to produce any ledger entries or mandatory verification details as required under the Poisons Act. Consequently, the FDA sealed the premises and confiscated the methanol stock.
CID Steps In
Following the seizure, the state government handed over the investigation to the CID to ensure a thorough and impartial probe. The CID will now investigate the entire supply chain of the spurious liquor, from the procurement of methanol to its distribution and sale. Authorities are also looking into possible links between Rex International and other entities involved in the illicit liquor trade.
The hooch tragedy has claimed several lives in Pune, with victims succumbing to methanol poisoning. Methanol, a toxic alcohol often used in industrial solvents, is sometimes illegally used to adulterate liquor to increase its alcohol content. Consumption of methanol can lead to blindness, organ failure, and death.
Government Response
The Maharashtra government has vowed to take strict action against those responsible. Officials have stated that the CID probe will leave no stone unturned in bringing the culprits to justice. Meanwhile, the FDA has intensified its crackdown on illegal liquor manufacturing units across the state.
This incident has once again highlighted the dangers of consuming spurious liquor and the need for stricter enforcement of regulations. The authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious activities related to illegal liquor production.
