Investigation Reveals Use of Non-Food-Grade Ethanol in Fatal West Java Incident
A tragic incident in Cianjur, West Java, has resulted in the deaths of nine individuals from alcohol poisoning after attending a local drinking gathering. The event, which took place on Thursday, has prompted serious concern among authorities, with the final fatality reported on Monday, February 10.
Septian Pratama, Head of the Narcotics Unit at Cianjur Police, revealed that 12 people in total were affected, with three still receiving medical attention while two others have been discharged. The victims, aged between 29 and 55, were from Pademangan Village and had consumed ethanol, which was purchased online. This ethanol, typically not intended for human consumption, was mixed with soda and bottled drinks, leading to severe symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headaches, and chest pain the following day.
Three victims were found deceased in their homes by fellow villagers, while others died later in hospital. Police discovered a five-litre container of ethanol believed to have been used during the event. Villagers’ attempts to burn the leftover alcohol resulted in an explosion. Authorities have confirmed that the alcohol was non-food-grade, typically used for purposes such as disinfection.
Ongoing investigations are examining whether the event was organised by anyone else. This incident follows a similar tragedy in Central Bogor, where four individuals died at another drinking event on Friday. While the alcohol involved in that incident remains unidentified, police are questioning those who attended the gathering as well as the alcohol vendor.
