Methanol poisoning from homemade hooch causes 6 deaths in Bangkok

Police are investigating an alarming rise in methanol poisoning cases linked to homemade alcohol in Bangkok’s Khlong Sam Wa district. Six people have died, and several others are critically ill after consuming the contaminated liquor.

Yesterday, August 28, at Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital, Pairoj Suratnawanich, the Deputy Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, confirmed that 22 patients are currently receiving treatment for suspected methanol poisoning. Among these, two new patients were admitted with severe symptoms, including difficulty breathing.

Investigations have revealed that some patients consumed harmful alcohol from different sources, not associated with the initially identified 18 locations. Five new clusters have been identified at Nikhom Lat Krabang Market (two clusters), Suwinthawong, Maruay Market, and Ram Inthra 44.

Police are examining potential links to Phatrasa, also known as Je Pu, a producer and mixer of the homemade liquor, and two other suspects, 46 year old Surasak (Es), and 44 year old Surachai (Art), owners of a white liquor factory. The investigation aims to determine if these suspects have distributed the contaminated alcohol to other locations.

Mindra Tangrungruangkit, Assistant Director for Quality Development at Nopparat Hospital, reported that two patients in their facility are in critical condition. One patient, admitted with severe respiratory distress, has been intubated and is undergoing dialysis.

The second patient, admitted last night, is also receiving dialysis. Mindra warned the public about the dangers of consuming illicit alcohol, urging them to cease immediately. She stressed the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms arise, as delayed treatment could result in fatalities. Nine patients have recovered due to timely medical intervention.

Kitipong Panomyong, head of the Occupational Medicine Centre, stated that blood tests revealed three toxic substances in the patients: isopropyl alcohol (IPA), ethanol, and methanol. IPA, which is not safe for consumption, adversely affects the kidneys and nervous system. However, methanol is the primary culprit due to its severe toxicity, reported KhaoSod.

Most patients initially presenting with symptoms did not exhibit typical signs of alcohol intoxication, necessitating blood tests to identify methanol poisoning.