The death toll in the suspected liquor-related deaths in Mokokchung has risen to nine following the death of a 37-year-old man at Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital (IMDH), Mokokchung, on September 26.

Superintendent of Police (SP), Mokokchung, also verified the details of the latest death, according to information made available to Nagaland Tribune.

Medical Superintendent of IMDH, Alemwapang Aier, informed Nagaland Tribune that the deceased, a 37-year-old member of the Yimkhiung community from Dibuia village, was brought to the hospital and admitted at around 2:50 p.m. on September 26. He expired at approximately 9:30 p.m. the same day.

At the time of admission, the patient presented symptoms with difficulty in breathing, abdominal pain and general weakness. Hospital records also noted a history of alcoholism three days prior to admission.

Deputy Chief Medical Officer (Dy. CMO) Takosunep told Nagaland Tribune that he was informed by the police at around 9:00 a.m. on September 27 to conduct the post-mortem examination. The post-mortem was conducted at around 10:30 a.m., during which samples were collected for further examination.

Takosunep said that altogether five post-mortem examinations have so far been conducted at the Mokokchung Civil Hospital in connection with the suspected liquor-related deaths. Two of the deceased were from Aliba, two from Mangkolemba and one person had been brought to Mokokchung recently from Dibuia village.

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The samples collected during the post-mortem examinations were handed over to the police for onward transmission to the Central Forensic Laboratory (CFL), Guwahati, for testing and thorough scientific examination. The forensic analysis is expected to assist investigators in establishing the cause and circumstances of the deaths.

Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted in connection with the cases continues its investigation. The SIT is headed by Additional Superintendent of Police, Mokokchung, I. Bunglang Chang, and comprises three other police officers. The team is continuing with the investigation into the suspected liquor-related deaths, including examination of relevant evidence and circumstances surrounding the cases.

With the latest death, the number of reported deaths in Mokokchung in connection with the suspected liquor cases has risen to nine. The investigation and forensic examination are continuing.