In a tragic incident, at least 19 individuals have lost their lives in Nagaland due to the consumption of suspected spurious liquor. These deaths occurred over the past two days in the districts of Mokokchung and Tuensang, raising serious concerns regarding the enforcement of liquor prohibition laws that have been in place since 1990.
The state's police department has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by Additional Superintendent of Police I Bunglang Chang, to probe the circumstances surrounding these deaths. The team aims to identify the source and supply chain of the illicit liquor. According to Senior Superintendent of Police Vesupra Kezo, samples have been dispatched to Guwahati for forensic examination to determine the exact cause of death.
- Multiple fatalities reported — Eight deaths in Mokokchung and eleven in Tuensang.
- SIT established — Special team formed to investigate the liquor supply chain.
- Public safety warnings issued — Authorities advise against consuming unidentified liquor.
The police have already conducted several raids, resulting in the arrest of 19 suspects and the seizure of nearly 3,000 bottles of liquor. They have cautioned the public to refrain from consuming alcohol that is unlabelled or from unknown sources. In light of these events, anyone experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, blurred vision, or breathing difficulties after drinking is urged to seek immediate medical attention.
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in enforcing liquor laws in the state. Despite the prohibition, the illegal liquor trade continues to thrive, endangering lives. The investigation's findings may lead to stricter enforcement measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
