Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.

According to Indian officials, 34 people have died, and at least 100 people have been hospitalized after drinking illegally brewed alcohol in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

The fatalities were confirmed by a state government spokesperson on Thursday, who revealed that the victims had consumed alcohol laced with methanol. The incident took place in the Kallakurichi district, where over 100 individuals suffering from symptoms like vomiting, stomach ache, and diarrhea sought medical attention, prompting a thorough police investigation.

At this time, one person has been taken into custody for distributing the tainted alcohol. In addition, police have seized roughly 195 liters of methanol-laced alcohol. The state’s chief minister, MK Stalin, has vowed to punish those responsible. In a statement, he said, “Such crimes that ruin the society will be suppressed with an iron fist.”

Some local officials have noted that the number of deaths is expected to rise as many of those hospitalized are in critical condition.

This follows past incidents in India that have killed hundreds over the years. Illegal alcohol is common in the country, often lucrative due to tax evasion and its affordability.