Four persons in Mangkolemba Sub-Division of Mokochung district have died during the last few days following suspected consumption of adulterated/spurious MC Rum, while four others have reportedly fallen ill after consuming liquor, according to Mokokchung Police.
In connection with the incident, Mangkolemba Police Station has registered a case vide Case No. 002 under Section 105 of the BNS read with Sections 44(a), (c), (d) and (e) of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act.
So far, six persons have been arrested and suspected adulterated liquor has been seized in connection with the case.
Mokokchung Police said a thorough investigation has been initiated to ascertain the circumstances leading to the deaths and illness of the victims, trace the source and supply chain of the suspected spurious liquor, and identify all persons involved in its manufacture, transportation, distribution or sale. Appropriate legal action will be taken against all those found involved, it said.
The police clarified that the exact cause of the deaths and illness remains under investigation and will be determined on the basis of medical and other supporting evidence.
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In view of the serious nature of the incident, the general public has been strongly advised to refrain from consuming liquor. Police cautioned that liquor from the suspected source may have been distributed to other parts of the State and that consumption could pose a serious risk to life and health.
The public has also been advised that anyone experiencing gastric pain, dizziness, blurred vision, breathing difficulties, severe headache or loss of consciousness after consuming liquor should immediately seek medical attention and inform the nearest police station or concerned authority. Such symptoms should not be ignored, as timely medical intervention may help prevent serious complications or loss of life.
Police further appealed to the public to report any suspected sale or storage of spurious/adulterated liquor, as well as information regarding its source and distribution. Timely information, it said, would help authorities provide necessary treatment, prevent further loss of life, contain the spread of such liquor and initiate appropriate legal action.
Mokokchung Police solicited the cooperation of citizens in preventing further casualties and identifying those involved in the illegal trade and distribution of spurious liquor.
