25-8-2024 (BANGKOK) A lethal batch of illicit alcohol has sparked a major health crisis and subsequent crackdown in Thailand’s capital, as authorities scramble to contain the fallout from a moonshine-related tragedy. One man has died and 20 others have been hospitalised following the consumption of methanol-laced homebrew in Bangkok’s Min Buri district on Saturday evening.
The incident has prompted swift action from Thai officials, who have shuttered 18 moonshine shops across six districts in response to the outbreak. Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital in the Kannayao district reported on Sunday that a total of 21 patients had fallen ill after imbibing the toxic concoction.
Dr Amporn Benjaponpitak, Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, detailed the alarming symptoms exhibited by those affected. “Patients are presenting with dizziness, abdominal pain, vomiting, impaired vision, and seizures,” she explained. Dr Amporn noted that symptoms typically manifest between 16 and 24 hours post-consumption of this particular type of moonshine.
The victims, predominantly men aged 30 to 40, with one 69-year-old exception, are currently receiving treatment across several medical facilities in Bangkok. Thirteen are under care at Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital, five at Navamin 9 Hospital, and individual cases at Rajavithi and Kasemrad Ramkhamhaeng Hospitals. Tragically, one patient succumbed to the poisoning at Synphaet Serirak Hospital.
Reports indicate that cardiac arrest was a common complication, with six patients requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Dr Amporn warned of potentially lifelong consequences for some victims, including the need for ongoing kidney dialysis and severe visual impairment affecting seven patients.
Authorities traced the source of the tainted alcohol to shops concentrated in Min Buri and Khlong Sam Wa districts, with a particular focus on Soi Hathai Rat 33. Payung Boonsomsuwan, director of the Excise Department’s Office of Prevention and Suppression, confirmed that liquor samples from three stalls in these districts tested positive for methanol contamination.
Further investigation led officials to a clandestine factory in Saphan Sung district, where methanol was being diluted with water to produce a potent 40% proof liquor. This lethal brew was then distributed to 18 stalls across six Bangkok districts: Min Buri, Khlong Sam Wa, Lat Krabang, Prawet, Khan Na Yao, and Nong Chok.
In response to the crisis, the Excise Department has ordered the immediate closure of all 18 identified shops. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin issued a stern warning to the public, urging citizens to avoid illegal homebrews and any alcoholic beverages lacking an official excise stamp.
