37 dead from fake alcohol poisoning in Istanbul since Nov. 1: Governor's Office

Türkiye struggles with a bootleg alcohol crisis as methanol poisoning deaths continue in Istanbul. (Adobe Stock Photo)

Istanbul Governor's Office announced that 37 individuals have died from fake alcohol poisoning since Nov. 1.

https://twitter.com/TC_istanbul/status/1868613616720601334

Istanbul Governor's Office's statement on X

Additionally, 17 individuals are still receiving treatment, while 23 others have been discharged after recovery.

Footages from the inspections against fake alcohol in Istanbul, Türkiye. (Istanbul Governor's Office Video)

Extensive inspections conducted across Istanbul

In a statement, the Governor's Office detailed the efforts of the Istanbul Police Department’s Anti-Smuggling Crimes Division. In 2024 alone:

1,002 businesses were inspected.
Authorities seized:
- 287,758 liters of alcoholic liquid
- 14,701 bottles of filled alcoholic beverages
- 853,460 counterfeit labels and seals
- Various other products used in the production and distribution of fake alcohol.
A total of 32 businesses were fined ?2.66 million ($76,100) in administrative penalties.