Tragic Deaths Linked to Illicit Liquor Extraction in Jharkhand

In a tragic incident in Jharkhand's Hazaribag district, three members of a single family lost their lives while attempting to recover illegal liquor hidden inside a septic tank. The victims, including a woman, reportedly succumbed to toxic fumes, according to police sources on Wednesday.

The incident occurred late Tuesday night in Kud village, under the jurisdiction of Katkamdag Police Station. Those who died have been identified as Chameli Devi, aged 50, her son Ravi Kumar, 25, and her brother-in-law Madan Sao, 30. Police had earlier raided Devi's house to seize illicit liquor, prompting her to enter the tank to retrieve it, followed by the others attempting a rescue.

Saroj Kumar, the officer in-charge at Katkamdag Police Station, noted that the family members lost consciousness after exposure inside the tank. Initial investigations point to asphyxiation as the cause of death as they sought to access hidden 'Mohua' liquor. Post mortem examinations are underway at Sheikh Bhikhari Medical College and Hospital, and authorities have commenced a comprehensive inquiry into the matter.

(With inputs from agencies.)