The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has issued a new travel warning for Türkiye following numerous recent deaths relating to methanol-laced alcoholic drinks.
According to DFAT’s Smartraveller website, there have been many recent deaths reported in Istanbul from methanol in counterfeit drinks – with both locals and travellers having reported poisoning.
“People have become seriously ill after drinking contaminated alcohol,” it says.
“Drinks may be contaminated with harmful substances, including methanol.”
In its latest advice for Türkiye, DFAT urges Australian travellers to “be alert to the potential risks around food and drink spiking and methanol poisoning”.
“Consider the risks when drinking alcoholic beverages, particularly drinks made with spirits. Labels on bottles aren’t always accurate,” it states.
“Stick to reputable venues and beware of suspiciously cheap alcohol. Avoid homemade alcohol.”
Making the situation even more hazardous, DFAT says that symptoms of methanol poisoning can be similar to the effects of simply over-drinking, including fatigue, headaches and nausea.
“If you suspect that you, or someone you’re with, has been poisoned, get urgent medical attention,” it urges.
“It could save you from permanent disability or death. Report suspected cases of methanol poisoning to the police.”
Brett Mitchell, Managing Director of Intrepid Travel, which has a Türkiye tour departing in early February, said the tour operator “strongly recommends exercising caution when consuming alcohol” in Türkiye.
“Recent incidents of alcohol poisoning in Türkiye are concerning, and our thoughts are with those affected,” he told Karryon.
“Stick to reputable establishments, avoid homemade alcohol, and always check that bottles are sealed and labels are intact. It’s also helpful to seek trusted local advice from those who are knowledgeable about local risks.
“Our local trip leaders play a key role in ensuring traveller safety and can provide guidance on how to enjoy the destination responsibly. By taking these precautions, travellers can reduce the risk and have a safer, more enjoyable experience.”
According to local authorities, the number of recent deaths from counterfeit alcohol has risen to 38 – and the death toll is predicted to grow. Dozens more people have been admitted to hospital due to poisoning, with officials confirming that 26 of those hospitalised were foreign nationals.
However, police claim to be making progress in reining in bootleggers.
After multiple raids across the city, the Istanbul Police Department has seized around 33 tonnes of counterfeit alcohol, a distillation apparatus and other equipment, Türkiye Today reported.
The licenses of 64 businesses involved in illegal alcohol sales have also been revoked.
Meanwhile, the Istanbul governor’s office said in a statement authorities had also detained several suspects from the operation, with two charged with “deliberate murder”.
“We consider those who cause the death of dozens of our citizens by producing or selling fake alcohol to be no different from the terrorists who kill people,” the statement said.
“Our fight against the scoundrels who attempt to kill our people for material gains will continue unabated.”
For overall travel to the country, DFAT continues to advise Australians to “exercise a high degree of caution in Türkiye due to the threat of terrorism”, with higher levels applying in some areas.
In November 2024, the Federal Government issued fresh travel warnings about the risks of alcohol consumption and drink spiking after two Aussie teenagers – along with several other international tourists – died after ingesting tainted alcohol in Laos. If you’d like to help clients navigate alcohol safety whilst abroad, read our recent special report.
Late last year, Turkish Airlines touched down in Sydney for the first time after launching its inaugural Australian flights from Istanbul to Melbourne earlier in the year.
