Bangkok Booze Tragedy: Six Dead, Dozens Hospitalised After Drinking Toxic Moonshine
A popular Bangkok hotspot turned deadly after six people died and 37 were rushed to hospital from drinking fake alcohol. Tourists and locals alike bought the lethal booze from street vendors in the bustling Thai capital.
Poisonous ‘Rotgut’ Laced with Methanol
Authorities launched an urgent probe after discovering the counterfeit drink was tainted with deadly chemicals like methanol and isopropanol — nasty toxins often used to cut cheap booze, making it extremely dangerous to health.
“Fifteen patients are on ventilators, and 22 need kidney dialysis,” said Thai Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin. “Many suffer blurred vision — a sign of severe alcohol poisoning.”
As of August 27, eight victims have been discharged, but many remain in critical condition.
Arrests Made in Moonshine Horror
The toxic alcohol was traced to a location in Bangkok’s Saphan Sung district. A 49-year-old woman, Phatrasa, was arrested and charged with illegal alcohol production. She claimed she had sold herbal alcohol for decades without problems and expressed deep regret over the deaths.
Phatrasa revealed at a press conference that she hired two brothers, Surasak Insam, 46, and Surachai Insam, 44, to make rice whiskey. She admitted recent batches tasted “weaker and fizzier.” Despite feeling slightly ill after sampling the latest brew, she had no idea it would cause fatal poisonings.
The Insam brothers confessed to watering down the moonshine but denied knowing about the deadly methanol contamination. Police are now investigating a factory owner in Samut Prakan province suspected of supplying the toxic chemicals.
Police Crack Down on Illegal Liquor Trade
Police Major General Kiatikul Sonthinen confirmed that Phatrasa faces charges for negligent homicide, serious injury, and violating excise laws by producing and selling liquor without licences.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has issued a public warning urging anyone who bought moonshine from 18 identified spots to seek urgent medical help.
Deadly Lesson: Beware Fake Booze
This horror story highlights the deadly risks of unregulated alcohol in areas plagued by illegal production. The investigation continues, with further arrests expected as police hunt down everyone involved in making and distributing this toxic brew.
