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.