At least 48 people have died and around 100 others are undergoing treatment following a suspected methanol poisoning outbreak in Ondo State, southern Nigeria.
Health authorities said a total of 182 people may have been affected, with cases reported in several communities in the Odigbo and Irele local government areas.
Those who fell ill reportedly experienced serious symptoms, including difficulty breathing, loss of vision, extreme weakness and altered consciousness.
Some patients have since recovered and been discharged from medical facilities.
Police have arrested 15 people in connection with the incident, including a suspected producer of the alcoholic drink believed to be linked to the outbreak.
Authorities have also seized suspected methanol-containing substances for further testing as investigators work to determine how the toxic chemical entered the beverage supply.
Methanol is a highly toxic form of alcohol that can cause blindness, organ damage and death when consumed, even in relatively small amounts.
The investigation remains ongoing as health officials continue monitoring affected communities and treating those who were exposed.
(Photo Courtesy: AP)
