At least 18 people died and about two dozen others suffered serious health issues after partygoers at two separate events consumed toxic drinks, Pakistani officials said yesterday.
Victims were rushed to hospitals in the central city of Faisalabad when they fell unconscious after drinking the alcohol at a birthday party and another gathering. Both of the events were held in private homes.
“The death toll from the two parties has reached 18. Around two dozens others are heavily affected by the toxic liquor and battling for consciousness,” senior police official Javed Ahmed Khan told reporters.
“The incidents took place in Batala colony. Five people were killed at a birthday party on Thursday and 13 others died in another get together in the same area on Friday,” he added.
The public sale of alcohol is banned in Pakistan and many people prepare cheap liquor at home.
“Most of the people have died at homes, while a few expired in hospitals,” said Abid Zafar, head of the Faisalabad Police Station.
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