33 Dead in Istanbul from Counterfeit Alcohol as Tax Policy Faces Scrutiny

High taxes on alcohol in Turkey are being blamed for driving the production of dangerous counterfeit beverages, leading to a surge in fatalities.

A total of 33 people have died and 48 others have been hospitalized in Istanbul after consuming counterfeit alcohol since January 13, 2025.
Methanol, a toxic industrial alcohol, is suspected to be the cause of the poisonings, according to local reports.
Four individuals have been arrested on charges of 'homicide voluntary' for allegedly selling the tainted alcohol.
Critics argue that Turkey's steep alcohol taxes, which make legal alcohol unaffordable for many, are encouraging the production and consumption of counterfeit products.
Since the start of 2025, authorities in Istanbul have seized 29 tons of counterfeit alcohol and revoked the licenses of 64 businesses involved in its sale.