LUSAKA, May 17 (Xinhua) -- At least 10 people have died and others have been hospitalized in different districts of southern Zambia after consuming a suspected locally made alcohol, police said on Friday.
Danny Mwale, the police deputy spokesperson, said the incidents happened on different dates after the victims consumed the beer, which was made by mixing methylated spirit, water, sugar, and shoe polish.
He said in a statement that the first incident occurred in Zimba District on Sunday, where two people died, and five others were admitted to a local hospital fighting for their lives after consuming the suspected beer.
The police spokesperson said three people died in Pemba District and five in Namwala District in similar circumstances, while others were hospitalized.
According to the police spokesperson, all the victims suffered from severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vision problems.
"Police investigations show that reports from members of the public indicate that the number of victims affected as a result of drinking homemade alcohol is higher," he said, adding that police, working with health officials, have intensified investigations.
