Toxic Liquor Tragedy: 12 Dead in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, Police Detain Suspect

Brief By Newsbrief / 11:26 AM on 30 May 2026

A tragic toxic liquor incident has claimed the lives of 12 people in Maharashtra’s Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad regions, triggering a major investigation by police and administrative authorities. The deaths were reported over the last two days, with officials suspecting that the victims consumed contaminated or illicitly manufactured alcohol.

According to police sources, seven deaths were recorded in Pimpri-Chinchwad, while five people lost their lives in Pune. The worst-affected area was Phugewadi in Pimpri-Chinchwad, where six fatalities were reported. Among the victims were two real brothers from the same family, highlighting the devastating impact of the tragedy on local residents.

The victims from Phugewadi have been identified as Rajesh Rajput, Pandurang Phuge, Anand Desai, Akbar Pathan, and Anand Nikalje. In Pune’s Hadapsar area, the fatalities were reported from Sasane Nagar and Kalepadal. The deceased include Rahul Sharad Kshirsagar (45), Vijay Bhukhurlal Sharma (45), Arun Dadar, and Ashok Ramesh Chavan.

Following reports of the deaths, police and district authorities launched an immediate crackdown. A suspect believed to be connected to the distribution of the toxic liquor has been taken into custody for questioning. Authorities are working to trace the source of the alcohol and determine whether a larger illegal liquor network is involved.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has taken serious note of the incident and directed police officials in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad to conduct a thorough investigation. The administration has assured strict action against those responsible, while health and law enforcement agencies continue efforts to prevent further casualties and uncover the full extent of the tragedy.