A Ugandan official says those who die from drinking illicit local gin should be caned 6 times

Associated Press

Last update: November 14, 2009 - 8:29 AM

KAMPALA, Uganda - A Ugandan government official says the bodies of those who die because of drinking a local illicit gin should be caned six times before burial as an example to the living.

Edwin Komakech spoke Saturday at a security meeting in the Amuru district about 217 miles (350 kilometers) north of Uganda's capital.

Some who make the local gin, called waragi, have begun distilling it with poisonous methanol. Last week, police said they would launch an investigation into the making of the illicit waragi.

Over 50 people have died in the last two months in Uganda from drinking the poisonous gin.

In Uganda, the bodies of those who commit suicide are also caned as a form of dishonor and to warn against such behavior for the living.

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