Tuensang death toll rises to 11 amid suspected liquor link

TUENSANG — The death toll in Tuensang has risen to at least 11, with the District Hospital confirming two more deaths on September 12 amid an ongoing investigation into suspected links between the deaths and alcohol consumption.

The superintendent of police, Tuensang, had reported nine deaths on September 10 and 11, stating that the deaths in Tuensang town and Chendang Saddle were linked to alcohol consumption and that the matter was under investigation.

The medical superintendent of District Hospital Tuensang told Eastern Mirror on Monday that the hospital had recorded seven deaths during the three-day period—two on September 10, three on September 11 and two on September 12.

The hospital's figures bring the overall death toll to 11, with the two deaths recorded on September 12 adding to the nine deaths reported by police for the preceding two days.

Related: 10 deaths in Tuensang trigger state-wide liquor advisory

The deaths have caused shock in Tuensang Town, with victims reportedly experiencing symptoms including vomiting, blurred vision, abdominal pain and difficulty breathing.

While suspicion has centred on spurious or contaminated alcohol, authorities have yet to scientifically or conclusively establish that such liquor caused the deaths.

Police had earlier conducted raids in Tuensang Town and Chendang Saddle, recovering approximately 470 bottles of Indian-made foreign liquor and beer cans. The source and nature of the liquor are being investigated.

Also read: Tuensang: 10 dead in three days, cause yet to be ascertained