29 people were killed in Russia and 61 others were poisoned, more than half of them seriously, as a result of consuming adulterated alcoholic beverages, according to what the authorities announced Tuesday. Russian news agencies quoted the Ministry of Health as saying that “the total number of victims of alternative alcohol poisoning in Russian regions is 90 people,” including 29 people who died, four in a “very dangerous” condition, and 30 in a “dangerous condition.”
Although cases of poisoning with adulterated alcoholic beverages are not uncommon in Russia, this incident is considered among the most fatal in this country. According to Russian media, the victims drank an alcoholic drink called “Mr. Cider” containing highly toxic methanol, reports Al-Rai daily quoting AFP.
The authorities have opened an investigation into the incident and ordered the confiscation of all spoiled quantities produced from it. This drink was produced in the city of Samara, located on the Volga River.
Deaths from poisoning with adulterated alcoholic beverages are not uncommon in Russia, where the price of a bottle of alcohol is prohibitive for millions of poor people.
Since October 2021, 35 people have died in Russia as a result of adulterated alcohol poisoning in two different accidents.