Turkish authorities have issued a critical warning against consuming bootleg alcohol after 103 people lost their lives due to poisoning in Istanbul and Ankara since the start of the new year. The fatalities, reported between January 1 and January 14, have raised alarm about the widespread circulation of counterfeit liquor disguised as well-known brands.
In Istanbul alone, 70 people have died, while Ankara has recorded 33 deaths. Additionally, 230 individuals have been hospitalised due to alcohol poisoning, with at least 40 in critical condition, according to officials.
Skyrocketing Alcohol Prices Fuel Black Market Sales
The rise in bootleg alcohol consumption has been attributed to the soaring prices of legal liquor, driven by heavy taxation under President Tayyip Erdogan’s ruling AK Party. Since 2025, Turkey has implemented yet another tax hike on alcohol and tobacco products, making legal drinks increasingly unaffordable for many citizens.
As a result, some consumers, as well as businesses such as bars, restaurants, and small retailers, have turned to illegal sources, fueling the distribution of unregulated and toxic liquor.
Government Crackdown on Illicit Alcohol Trade
In response to the crisis, Istanbul’s governor’s office has introduced stricter measures to combat the sale of counterfeit alcohol. These include enforcing mandatory security cameras at alcohol-selling establishments, revoking sale licenses, and increasing inspections.
Authorities have arrested 13 individuals in Ankara and 11 in Istanbul in connection with the illicit trade. In addition, over 102 tons of methanol and ethanol were confiscated in Ankara, while more than 86,000 liters of smuggled or counterfeit alcohol were seized in Istanbul.
Global Concern Over Methanol Poisoning
The alarming deaths in Turkey follow a similar tragedy in Laos, where six tourists, including an American and a British backpacker, died after unknowingly consuming methanol-laced alcohol. Among the victims was a 19-year-old Australian woman, highlighting the global risk of consuming unregulated alcoholic beverages.
Authorities continue to warn the public against purchasing alcohol from unreliable sources, as efforts to dismantle the bootleg alcohol network intensify.
