Glenwood construction workers die, SAPS investigate methanol poisoning

SAPS are investigating an inquest docket following the death of five people who allegedly drank methanol. It is alleged workers acquired the methanol at a Clark Road block of flats where they were working. Methanol is a toxic alcohol that is used industrially as a solvent, pesticide, and alternative fuel source.

According to eThekwini District Communication officer for the SAPS, Captain Carmen Rhynes, five inquests incidents have been reported at Folweni SAPS, where the deceased were complaining of stomach pains, chest burning, back pains, vomiting and overheating after consuming Methanol.

According to Rhynes, three residents of Folweni A section, aged 32, 33 and 35 died on March 16 in hospital while another man, aged 49 and a woman, aged 21 died in their home after drinking the methanol, thinking it was alcohol.

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 “I would like to appeal to all communities to not drink any substance that is suspicious or not labelled. It can result in an incident of life and death. This includes homemade concoctions that are not tested or safe,” said Rhynes.

Rhynes said it is alleged that two men stole 20 litres of methanol at a Clark Road flat where they were working, however, there has been no theft case opened at Umbilo SAPS.

According to Glenwood resident, Crispin Hemson, a resident gave the methanol to the construction workers to sell. Hemson told the Berea Mail that he heard about the issue from a construction company.

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“I had a discussion on Tuesday, March 15 with a contractor working at a block of flats in Glenwood. He was concerned about his workers drinking. The next day he told me that two of his workers, who come from Folweni, had died after drinking liquid from a container that had come from the block of flats. His understanding was that the liquid was methanol. Later it became clear that several people have died and others are still in Prince Mshiyeni hospital,” said Hemson. 

Rhynes said the container of methanol has not been found, however, Folweni SAPS is investigating the case. 

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