"If you think hangovers are the worst thing that can happen to you after drinking counterfeit alcohol, think again." That's how Interpol introduces its online warning about adulterated alcohol, which can wreak havoc. A warning that did not follow in Meknes, in central Morocco, seven people died after consuming it.
Highly toxic, this beverage claims many victims, especially in Russia and India. Last year, for example, nearly 40 people died after drinking a locally made drink known as "Mahua" or "Desi Daru" at weddings and other gatherings. Many participants complained of stomach pain and vision loss, and then began vomiting.
Cheaper methanol, car parts as condensers...
The phenomenon is becoming more and more known to police around the world. The Interpol website is specific on the issue: the reason why counterfeit alcohol is so dangerous is "that it is often made from toxic chemicals that are simply unfit for consumption".
Legally produced alcohol contains ethanol which, when absorbed in small quantities, is tolerated by the body - although several studies regularly show the dangers of excessive consumption. In the case of counterfeit alcohol, manufacturers are looking to reduce costs by replacing ethanol with cheaper substances. Pure alcohol is then often denatured by the addition of methanol, another type of alcohol, and therefore becomes unfit for consumption.
Even without the addition of methanol, the danger is often present at stills using automotive radiators as condensers. In this case, glycol – produced from the antifreeze of a car's radiator – as well as lead may appear. However, these are two substances that are also very toxic.
"Same smell as a stripper or solvent"
Adulterated alcohols have a very high toxicity and can cause great damage. Interpol lists them conscientiously: confusion, lack of coordination, vomiting, slow or irregular breathing, pale or bluish complexion, low body temperature (hypothermia), state of stupor (the mind is conscious but does not react), loss of consciousness (fainting) but especially intoxication that can go as far as deep coma and death.
The International Criminal Police Organization also has a recommendation to guard against the purchase of such products. The "4 Ps" method: pay attention to the point of sale, price, packaging and product. "If the product has the same smell as a stripper or solvent, it is probably because it contains it!" warns Interpol.
The organization's latest advice, "If you think you or one of your friends has been drinking counterfeit alcohol, talk to a doctor. If you think you've seen counterfeit alcohol on sale, don't buy it. Report the product and seller to the nearest product standards agency."
In Meknes, an investigation was immediately opened. The alcohol was allegedly acquired from a grocery store and investigations led to the arrest of his shopkeeper, 67, and his apprentice, aged 17. Police also seized a dozen empty bottles that contained medical alcohol "which caused the death of the victims."