Overview
- The methanol‑tainted bootleg liquor episode that hospitalised dozens and killed 20 people occurred between May 26 and May 28 in the Phugewadi‑Dapodi belt of Pimpri Chinchwad and Hadapsar in Pune.
- Maharashtra CID has arrested 11 people so far and says it has identified about 20 additional suspects, for whom five teams have been formed to trace and arrest those linked to the supply and distribution chain.
- Investigators say the prime accused allegedly bought poisonous methanol through an online business‑to‑business platform using a fake Aadhaar identity and two suppliers who sold methanol have been arrested.
- Forensic steps under way include sending seized phones for analysis and cloning, scrutinising call detail records, recording witness statements, and running two public assistance centres for tips and family support.
- Officials have suspended 26 police and state excise personnel for alleged lapses, a development that could shape administrative accountability and push scrutiny of online chemical sales and verification practices.