Maharashtra FDA seizes methanol from Bhiwandi firm after Pune liquor deaths

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) seized 5,929 kg of methanol from a Bhiwandi-based company, Rex International, officials said on Monday (June 1, 2026). The chemical was supplied to bootleggers who allegedly made the liquor that killed 16 people in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad.

According to an FDA officer, police investigations showed that the chemical used in the spurious liquor came from Rex International. The company operates from Vashi and has a warehouse in Bhiwandi.

Drug inspector Yogendra Pol raided the warehouse on Saturday and the officials seized 5,929 kg of methanol. The company did not produce purchase and sale records of the substance. Officials also found that stock registers were not maintained. The FDA seized entire stock to prevent further misuse.

Mr. Pol said, “Company owner Arun Kumar Chaube and authorised signatory Abhishek Arun Kumar Chaube were not present during the raid. A complaint has been filed at the Narpoli police station in Bhiwandi. A criminal case has been registered against them. The FDA has started proceedings to cancel the company’s licence under the Poisons Act.”

FDA commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said, “Safe food and medicines are the fundamental right of every citizen. We will take legal action against those who violate the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and other laws.” He said the FDA would act against any person or establishment involved in activities related to drugs, chemicals and food products that were not permitted by law.