Tragedy in Leningrad: Bootleg Alcohol Claims Lives

In Russia's Leningrad region, at least seven people died from consuming bootleg alcohol, while others are hospitalized. The suspect, arrested in Gostitsy, allegedly sold the alcohol. Despite tightened regulations, homemade alcohol consumption is still pervasive, attributed to rising retail prices and regional restrictions.

At least seven individuals have tragically died in Russia's Leningrad region after consuming bootleg alcohol, as confirmed by the interior ministry on Friday. The incident has also left three others in need of medical treatment due to poisoning.

A resident from the town of Gostitsy, close to the Estonian border, has been arrested for allegedly distributing the illicit alcohol to locals, according to a statement from the interior ministry spokesperson.

This alarming event echoes a historical precedence when Russia heightened alcohol production regulations following a similar disaster in Siberia in 2016. This danger persists as rising legal alcohol prices and local restrictions push some to homebrewing, with disastrous consequences.

(With inputs from agencies.)