Contaminated alcohol kills 18 in Pakistan

At least 18 people have died and dozens more fallen ill after drinking contaminated alcohol in Pakistan, officials say. The victims, believed to be mostly Muslim and Christian laborers, consumed the toxic drink at two parties. Only non-Muslims are allowed to purchase and consume alcohol in Pakistan; however, may people illegally brew alcoholic drinks - sometimes which turn out to be toxic - at home. And, with legal wine shops closed over Ramadan, drinkers often buy illegal liquor. Victims fainted after drinking the alcohol at a birthday party and at another private event, authorities have said. Most reportedly died before they could be taken to hospital. Speaking to the AFP News agency, Senior Police official Javed Ahmed Khan said: "The death toll from both parties has reached 18. Around two dozen others (24) are heavily affected by the toxic liquor and battling for consciousness." The provincial governor has ordered an investigation into the incident.