Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Ten Uzbek citizens have died in Istanbul (Türkiye) after consuming counterfeit alcohol, according to information provided by the Consulate General of Uzbekistan in Istanbul.

Initially, reports indicated six fatalities—five men and one woman. However, the consulate later clarified that the death toll had risen, with four more Uzbek citizens succumbing to alcohol poisoning, bringing the total number of victims to ten.

It has been reported that several dozen individuals suffered from consuming counterfeit alcohol in Istanbul, most of whom are foreign nationals.

Local law enforcement authorities have arrested two Turkmen citizens suspected of producing and distributing the fake alcohol. Criminal charges have been filed against them, and a police investigation is underway.