In two months, 152 people died from counterfeit alcohol: 983 people were detained

Since the beginning of the year, 152 people have died due to counterfeit alcohol. In 780 operations, 983 people have been detained, and 445,016 liters of counterfeit alcohol have been seized.

Fatalities caused by counterfeit alcohol have reached alarming levels in Turkey, while security forces continue operations against illegal production and sales. In 2025, 152 people lost their lives due to counterfeit alcohol consumption, and in 780 operations conducted under the coordination of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, 983 suspects were detained.

50 people arrested, 445,000 liters of counterfeit alcohol seized

According to sources from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, police and gendarmerie units have intensified their nationwide operations against counterfeit alcohol production and sales. During the raids, a total of 445,016 liters of counterfeit alcohol was seized. Of the 983 detainees, 50 people were arrested, while 75 suspects were placed under judicial control. Investigations into the remaining suspects are still ongoing.

Counterfeit alcohol consumption increases mortality

In Turkey, illegally produced counterfeit alcohol, often containing lethal substances like methanol, leads to hundreds of deaths each year. Authorities emphasize that counterfeit alcohol not only poses a serious public health threat but also causes significant economic losses. Experts call for stricter regulations and more frequent inspections of illegal manufacturers and vendors.

Authorities’ warning: Consumers must be cautious

Officials from the Ministry of Internal Affairs have urged citizens to avoid purchasing unregistered and unstamped alcoholic beverages and to report suspicious products to law enforcement agencies. Additionally, legislative changes are being discussed to increase criminal penalties against those involved in the production and sale of counterfeit alcohol.