Nigeria: Ondo Killer Drink - 49 Dead, 170 Affected - Health Commissioner
[Vanguard] The Ondo State government has said that 49 people have now died from suspected poisonous alcohol consumption, with 170 others affected across the state.
In Ondo State, Nigeria, 49 individuals have lost their lives due to suspected consumption of toxic alcohol, with 170 others affected across the region. Health Commissioner Dr. Banji Ajaka announced the updated death toll and emphasized the heightened surveillance and emergency response in affected communities. Eight of the most recent fatalities occurred in the Irele council area, as investigations continue to uncover the source of the deadly substance.
The state government is collaboratively working with various agencies such as NAFDAC, NDLEA, DSS, and NSCDC to probe the incident. Ajaka warned residents against consuming unregulated drinks, as even herbal medicine products can be lethal if their contents are unknown. The police have arrested 15 suspects, including Oloruntoba Babatunde, suspected of producing a toxic substance containing methanol.
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