NEW DELHI, May 15 (Xinhua) -- At least 12 people were killed and several others taken ill after allegedly consuming toxic liquor in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, officials said Monday.
The deaths were reported from the Villupuram and Chengalpattu districts of the state.
"In the Villupuram district, the death toll due to consumption of spurious liquor has reached eight, while in the Chengalpattu district, four deaths have been reported so far," an official said.
Over 30 people are reportedly undergoing treatment at different hospitals.
Senior police official N Kannan told the media the victims possibly consumed liquor that contained a mixture of ethanol-methanol and other chemical substances.
Officials said victims complained of eye irritation, vomiting, and giddiness.
"A man identified as Amaran has been arrested and illicit liquor has also been seized from his possession. It has been sent to the laboratory for testing," Kannan said.
Police have arrested nine people and suspended seven police officials for dereliction of their duty.
