Turkey Issues Fake Alcohol Warning After Over 100 Deaths in Tourist Hotspots

Turkey has issued an urgent warning against consuming bootleg alcohol after more than 100 people lost their lives due to poisoning in major cities. Since the beginning of the year, at least 103 people have died, with the highest casualties reported in Istanbul and Ankara. Authorities have also confirmed that over 230 people have been hospitalized, with 40 in critical condition. The alarming rise in fatalities has been linked to illegally produced alcohol sold under fake big-brand labels, which contains toxic substances like methanol.

Rising Alcohol Costs and the Surge in Bootleg Liquor

One of the main reasons for the growing problem of fake alcohol in Turkey is the high cost of legally produced liquor. In recent years, the Turkish government has imposed heavy taxes on alcohol under the leadership of President Tayyip Erdogan’s ruling AK Party. On January 3, 2025, another tax hike was introduced on alcohol and tobacco products, further increasing prices. This financial burden has pushed many consumers, as well as businesses like restaurants, bars, and shops, to turn to illegal alternatives. As a result, the market for bootleg alcohol has expanded, leading to more cases of poisoning.

Homemade and illegally produced alcohol often contains dangerous levels of methanol, a toxic substance that can cause blindness, organ failure, or death when consumed. Unsuspecting consumers who purchase these counterfeit products often cannot differentiate them from legitimate brands, making them highly vulnerable to poisoning.

Authorities Crack Down on Bootleg Alcohol Sellers

Following the sharp rise in deaths, Turkish authorities have intensified their crackdown on illegal alcohol distribution. In Istanbul, where 70 people have died since January 14, the governor’s office has introduced strict measures to prevent the sale of fake liquor. These include mandatory surveillance cameras in shops selling alcohol, regular inspections, and the suspension or revocation of licenses for businesses caught selling illegal products.

In Ankara, where 33 deaths have been recorded since January 1, security forces have arrested 13 individuals involved in bootleg alcohol production and distribution. In Istanbul, 11 more arrests have been made. Officials have also seized large quantities of toxic substances used in the illegal manufacturing process. Reports indicate that in Ankara alone, authorities confiscated 102 tons of methanol and ethanol, while in Istanbul, they seized over 86,000 liters of smuggled or counterfeit alcohol.

The Global Danger of Methanol Poisoning

The recent deaths in Turkey highlight the growing global problem of methanol-tainted alcohol. Similar incidents have been reported in other countries, including Laos, where six tourists recently died after consuming fake liquor. Among the victims were an American traveler and a British backpacker, along with a 19-year-old Australian woman. These tragedies serve as a warning about the dangers of consuming alcohol from unverified sources, especially in countries where bootleg liquor production is common.

What Can Tourists and Locals Do to Stay Safe?

Given the increasing risks associated with fake alcohol, authorities have advised consumers to take extra precautions when purchasing liquor. Tourists visiting Turkey should avoid buying alcohol from unlicensed vendors or unfamiliar establishments. Checking for official tax stamps and only purchasing from reputable stores can help reduce the risk of exposure to toxic substances. Additionally, travelers should be cautious when accepting drinks from unknown sources in bars and restaurants.

Conclusion

The alarming rise in deaths due to bootleg alcohol in Turkey underscores the dangers of consuming unregulated liquor. As the government struggles to combat the issue, the burden of awareness and caution falls on consumers. Tourists and locals alike must remain vigilant and ensure they purchase alcohol from reliable sources. With authorities ramping up inspections and cracking down on illegal sellers, the hope is to reduce the number of fatalities and prevent further tragedies. However, until significant policy changes are made to address the root cause—high alcohol prices—bootleg liquor may continue to pose a serious public health threat in Turkey.