At least 22 people have been killed and 16 others are in critical condition in hospital after consuming adulterated alcohol in Istanbul, the governor's office said today, adding that four people had been arrested in connection with the case.
Turkish authorities have recently stepped up their crackdown on illicit alcohol in the run-up to the New Year celebrations, with many businesses across the country targeting vendors and distributors.
In a statement, the Istanbul governor's office said 11 of the dead were foreign nationals, as well as five of those being treated. A total of 46 people have been admitted to hospitals after suffering from alcohol poisoning.
Prices for alcoholic beverages in markets, restaurants and bars have skyrocketed in recent months due to high taxes and rising inflation.
Source: RES-EAP