31 May,2026 08:54 AM IST | Mumbai | Abhitash Singh
The company owners were not present during the raid. PIC/SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
In a major crackdown following the Pune hooch tragedy that claimed 18 lives, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has seized nearly six tonnes of methanol from a Bhiwandi-based chemical firm allegedly linked to the supply chain of the toxic liquor consumed by victims.
Acting on the directions of FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, officials raided the warehouse of Rex International in Bhiwandi's Mhatre Compound on Anjur Road, and seized 5929 kg of methanol, which is suspected to have been mixed into illicit liquor that led to said deaths. According to the FDA, the chain of distributors was operating out of Pune's Phugewadi.
Following the lead, FDA Drug Inspector Yogendra Pol conducted a raid at the warehouse. During the inspection, officials found a large quantity of methanol but reportedly failed to find mandatory stock registers, purchase-sale records, or documentation related to the toxic substance.
"Those playing with public health will not be spared. Action against illegal manufacture and sale of food and drugs will be stricter and continuous. Violators of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and allied laws will face direct legal action," Commissioner Mundhe said in a statement.
FDA officials said the timely intervention may have prevented further loss of lives, warning that similar illegal supply chains could be operating elsewhere in the state. The department has also announced plans to launch a mobile application and activate a toll-free helpline to encourage citizens to report illegal drug sales, adulteration, and suspicious chemical storage.
