Amman, June 29 (Petra) - The investigation team tasked to follow up on the Zarqa deaths after consuming methyl alcohol (methanol) reported the substance was produced at a licensed alcoholic beverage factory, "successfully" uncovering the cause of the recent poisioning mortalities, media spokesperson for the Public Security Directorate (PSD) announced.

In a statement Sunday, the spokesperson noted investigators "immediately" launched a probe after receiving reports on the fatal poisoning incidents, as well as collecting scene samples and laboratory test results, to gather a "large" number of samples from alcoholic beverage stores in Zarqa governorate.

The official indicated that methyl alcohol (methanol) was found in a number of alcoholic products manufactured by that factory under various brand names.

The team immediately visited the factory and took various samples, as traces of the substance were found inside one of the production and packaging line tanks after conducting laboratory tests.

In coordination with the Jordan Food and Drug Administration (JFDA), the spokesperson said the factory was closed, its contents confiscated, and its adminstration was arrested.

Launching investigations with the suspects, pending their referral to the judiciary, the spokesperson noted the quantities produced and sold from the factory to liquor stores, either directly or through distributors, are being collected, in coordination with the JFDA.

The spokesperson announced the number of deaths from consuming this toxic substance has risen to 7, with 1 critical case reported after laboratory tests and autopsies were conducted, as investigation is still ongoing.
//Petra// AG

29/06/2025 18:42:14