The East Luwu Police said the two brothers had died from suspected alcohol poisoning after a two-day drinking party.
Two brothers have died in East Luwu, South Sulawesi, after consuming a large amount of bootleg alcohol on Thursday.
The victims have been identified as Baharuddin, 44, and Bactiar, 36, both residents of Baruga village in Malili district. Prior to their deaths, the brothers had drunk Topi Raja, a local brand of bootleg alcohol, during a drinking party from Monday to Tuesday with five other people.
Each 1-liter bottle of Topi Raja costs about Rp 50,000 (US$3.52).
East Luwu Police general crimes head Insp. Akbar Andi Malloroang said that the drinking party was held in an empty house belonging to local resident Mama Ima. The victims apparently said they felt nauseous and had chest pains after the party.
“The victims were treated at the local puskesmas prior to their deaths,” said Akbar, referring to the Malili Community Health Center, as quoted by kompas.com on Friday. The others who took part in the drinking party were also being treated at the puskesmas.
“The police have already confiscated 26 bottles of Topi Raja and 17 bottles of the M150 beverage, and have also detained the seller [as part of] the investigation,” he said.
The East Luwu Police have cordoned off the scene of the crime in the ongoing investigation. (dpk)
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