The Turkish authorities have issued a notice asking tourists to avoid bootleg alcohol after more than 100 people died following consumption of illicit booze in Turkey since the beginning of the new year.

The death reportedly occurred in Ankara and Istanbul.

Authorities also warned that the country was witnessing rising sales of illicit booze in disguise of big-named brands.

Since January 14, 70 people died in Istanbul and 33 others lost their lives in Ankara for allegedly consuming illicit booze.

Also Read: South Korea: Teacher stabs to death 8-year-old student

In the two cities, 230 people are undergoing treatment in hospital.

Price of alcohol spikes in Turkey

The price of alcoholic drinks has rocketed in recent years due to heavy taxes imposed by president Tayyip Erdogan’s Islamist-rooted ruling AK Party, reported Independent.

Alcoholic drink makers are also facing tax burden and restrictions.

The high costs have pushed some consumers and shops, restaurants, and bars to rely on bootleg alcohol and homemade drinks, leading to rising poisoning in recent years, reported the Independent.

Authorities have arrested 13 people in Ankara and 11 in Istanbul so far.

They have seized 102 tons of methanol and ethanol in Ankara, and over 86,000 litres of bootleg or smuggled alcohol in Istanbul, the Independent reported.