Dimapur: The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Dimapur has detected methanol in samples of seized alcohol sent by Tuensang police after the suspected spurious liquor deaths of nine people in the district earlier this month.In a report submitted on Sept 24, the laboratory said the samples tested positive for methanol, or methyl alcohol, on qualitative analysis, according to a release issued by the Tuensang additional superintendent of police.However, the FSL said it could not quantify the methanol content because the required instruments were unavailable. It clarified that the qualitative detection of methanol alone does not establish its concentration or whether it exceeds the permissible limit.The report noted that trace quantities of methanol may be permitted under applicable food-safety standards, depending on the category of alcoholic beverage. Quantitative analysis is required to determine the actual concentration and assess compliance with the relevant standards.The samples have also been sent to the Central Forensic Science Laboratory in Guwahati for detailed quantitative analysis. The results are awaited.The investigation is continuing into the source, supply chain and distribution of the suspected alcoholic beverages. Further action will be taken after the complete forensic and investigative findings are received, police said.Tuensang police appealed to the public to avoid unidentified, unlabelled or suspected illicit alcoholic beverages while the investigation is under way.
