CID Steps In to Lead Probe into Pune’s Deadly Hooch Tragedy

When the news first broke that dozens of people had succumbed to a poisonous batch of hooch in Pune, the city’s streets were suddenly awash with grief and outrage. Families gathered, candles flickered, and a question hung heavy in the air: who was behind this lethal brew?

Initially, local police set up a special task‑force, but as the death toll rose—reaching more than 30 within a few days—the state decided a deeper, more forensic approach was needed. The Crime Investigation Department, or CID, was thus called in to take the reins of the inquiry.

Speaking at a brief press conference, CID Superintendent Ranjit Singh explained that their team would re‑examine the seized bottles, test for methanol levels, and trace the distribution network back to its source. "We are not just looking at the end‑point of the supply chain; we are digging right up to the people who manufacture and sell this illicit liquor," he said, his tone firm but not without empathy for the victims' families.

According to officials, the toxic concoction was reportedly mixed in a makeshift laboratory on the outskirts of Pune. Preliminary lab results indicated methanol concentrations far beyond the permissible limit, a known culprit behind blindness and death when ingested.

Over the past week, police have already detained five individuals believed to be directly involved in the production and distribution. The CID’s involvement now means a more systematic sweep: they will interrogate the detained, scrutinise mobile phone records, and work with forensic labs to map out the entire network.

For many locals, this move brings a sliver of hope. "We want justice," says Sunita Patil, whose brother was among those who passed away. "If the CID can find those responsible, maybe no more families will have to suffer this pain."

The state government has also promised financial assistance to the bereaved families and pledged stricter enforcement of the liquor excise laws. Meanwhile, the CID assures the public that the investigation will be transparent and swift, urging anyone with information to come forward.

While the tragedy has left an indelible scar on Pune, the CID’s takeover signals a determined effort to bring the perpetrators to book and, hopefully, prevent such a nightmare from ever repeating.