FDA Raids Bhiwandi Firm, Seizes Methanol Linked to Pune Hooch Tragedy

Bhiwandi, 30th May 2026: The investigation into the spurious liquor tragedy that has claimed 18 lives in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad has led authorities to a Bhiwandi-based chemical supplier, prompting the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to raid the firm and seize a large quantity of methanol allegedly linked to the manufacture of the toxic liquor.

Acting on forensic and medical findings, the FDA, under the direction of Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, conducted a raid on Rex International in Bhiwandi and recovered what officials described as an illegal stock of methanol. The premises where the chemical was allegedly stored were sealed, and cases have been registered against two accused.

According to officials, post-mortem and medical reports of the deceased revealed that the country liquor consumed by the victims contained methanol, a highly toxic industrial chemical. Investigators subsequently traced the supply chain and found that methanol allegedly used in preparing the spurious liquor had been sourced from Rex International.

Following the lead, an FDA team carried out a search operation at the company’s premises and seized the suspected stock of methanol. Authorities said the chemical was being stored illegally, and all related godowns were sealed during the operation.

The action forms part of a wider probe into the hooch tragedy that has resulted in multiple deaths and several hospitalisations across Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad. Police, the Excise Department and the FDA are jointly investigating the manufacture and distribution network behind the illicit liquor.

Officials said further action is likely as investigators attempt to identify all individuals and entities involved in the supply chain. The FDA has maintained that strict action will be taken against those found endangering public health through the illegal handling or distribution of hazardous chemicals.