Nine people have been reported dead one after another since May 22 in Russey Srok Kang Koeut commune in Kampot province’s Kampong Trach distritct.

Commune police chief San Sarun confirmed to The Post on May 24 that the deceased were among 37 other villagers who drank wine while attending a funeral there on May 21. One of them died on May 22, three others on May 23 and five more on May 24.

He said the remaining 37 are getting treatment at the district referral hospital.

The authorities suspected that the deaths were caused by tainted wine but are investigating to determine the exact cause.