CID expands investigation into hooch tragedy that killed 18

Sanjaynagar in Phugewadi, one of the worst-affected areas in the hooch tragedy. Pic/By Special Arrangement

The Maharashtra Crime Investigation Department (CID) has stepped up its probe into the spurious liquor tragedy that has claimed 18 lives in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, forming 10 special investigation teams to trace the network behind the manufacture, supply and distribution of suspected methanol-laced liquor.

CID probe

The state government has transferred the case to the CID. Investigators are examining the entire chain, from methanol procurement and liquor production to transportation, sale and distribution. Two key suspects linked to the suspected methanol supply have been identified, while financial transactions and supply routes are under scrutiny.

Arrests made

Six accused in the Dapodi case have been arrested and are in police custody. Investigators are questioning them to identify the source of the toxic chemical and trace others involved in the network.

Separately, the State Excise Department has arrested Akash Jadhav of Hadapsar, Irfan Nisar Qureshi of Dapodi's Pawar Vasti and Aryan Sanjay Dhotre of Gokhalenagar. The CID is seeking their custody for further interrogation.

Methanol trail

Investigators suspect the liquor consumed by victims contained methanol sourced through unauthorised channels. The probe is focused on how the toxic chemical was procured, transported and mixed into locally brewed liquor.

The Food and Drug Administration's Thane division has also registered a separate criminal case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Poisons Act and Maharashtra Poison Rules. Officials are examining whether seized methanol consignments are linked to the same supply chain being investigated by the CID.

Digital evidence

CID teams have collected CCTV footage, chemical samples, purchase records and other evidence. Samples have been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory in Pune for analysis. Investigators are also examining seized mobile phones to track communications, financial transactions and movements. An official said, "Digital evidence is expected to help identify more accused and expose the wider network."

Police have appealed to citizens with information about the manufacture, storage, transport or sale of the poisonous liquor to come forward. Officials said the probe will continue until all those involved in the methanol supply chain and illicit liquor racket are identified and prosecuted.

Citizens willing to share information related to the case may contact:

Shamrao Kale
Deputy Superintendent of Police, CID, Pune

8237229208
Investigating officer - Hadapsar case

Sachin Chavan
Deputy Superintendent of Police, CID, Pune

9011334580
Investigating officer - Dapodi case