Berhampur: At least 15 people have fallen ill, two critically, after consuming illicit country liquor in the Chikiti area of Ganjam district on Monday night. The critically ill have been admitted to the MKCG Medical College Hospital in Berhampur.
According to reports, all the victims are from Karbala village in the Chikti area. On Monday night, they consumed country liquor sold near Moundpur and soon started vomiting. As their condition deteriorated, the 15 alcoholics were admitted to Chikiti Medical Center. The condition of the two is said to be critical.
On being informed police and Excise department officials reached the spot and are conducting searches in Moundpur, Jainapur, and Karbalua areas.
Five persons have been arrested from Moundpur village — four by the police and one by the Excise department in connection with selling hooch in the area.
