Eight dead and over a hundred poisoned after consuming tainted alcohol

Eight people have died and over a hundred others have been poisoned in Morocco after consuming tainted alcohol in a rural commune north of Rabat, the Ministry of Health announced on Wednesday.

An investigation led to the identification of two suspects, aged 21 and 41, who are currently under medical supervision, according to local authorities.

Over 100 people have been affected by methanol poisoning between Monday and Wednesday in the commune of Sidi Allal Tazi, approximately 100 kilometers from the Moroccan capital. The Regional Health Directorate reported that 81 individuals remain under medical observation. The severe complications from the poisoning have resulted in the death of eight individuals.

This incident is not isolated. Last year, seven people died in Meknès (central Morocco) after consuming artisanal alcohol. In 2022, another tragic event occurred in Ksar El Kebir (northern Morocco), resulting in 19 deaths. These recurring incidents highlight the ongoing issue of methanol-laced alcohol in the country.

In theory, Moroccan law prohibits the sale of alcohol to Muslims, who make up 99% of the country's population, where Islam is the state religion. In practice, however, alcohol is readily available in bars, restaurants, and licensed stores, often sold behind opaque windows or thick curtains to avoid detection.

This latest tragedy underscores the dangers of consuming tainted alcohol and the urgent need for stricter regulation and enforcement to prevent such incidents. 

Moroccan authorities are urged to enhance monitoring efforts and raise public awareness about the risks associated with consuming artisanal alcohol. Ensuring the rigorous application of existing laws on alcohol sales is also crucial to prevent future poisonings.