Pune Hooch Horror: Police Crack Down After 12 Die From Suspected Toxic Liquor

At least 12 people have died after allegedly consuming spurious liquor in Maharashtra’s Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad regions, prompting a major police and excise department crackdown. Officials confirmed on Friday that eight persons , including an alleged key bootlegger, have been arrested in connection with the tragedy.

According to police, seven deaths were reported from the Phugewadi area in Pimpri Chinchwad, while five others died in Hadapsar’s Pandhare Mala locality . Three more individuals are currently undergoing treatment at a hospital after reportedly consuming the toxic liquor.

Authorities suspect the liquor was mixed with methanol , a highly poisonous chemical often linked to hooch tragedies. However, officials said forensic and autopsy reports are still awaited to confirm the exact cause of death.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Sandip Atole said a joint operation by the local police and the State Excise Department led to multiple arrests. State Excise Commissioner Atul Kanade identified one Yogesh Wankhede as a major supplier allegedly linked to the circulation of the illicit liquor in both affected areas.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the incident as “very serious” and said investigators had identified the broader network behind the illegal trade. He added that more arrests are likely as the probe expands.

The deaths triggered anger and grief across the affected localities. NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar criticised the state government over the incident and alleged administrative failure in curbing illegal liquor activities. Party workers also staged protests in Hadapsar and reportedly destroyed a suspected liquor den.

Police said the investigation is ongoing.