KARACHI: Pakistani police say at least eight people in the port city of Karachi have died after consuming homemade liquor.

Police officer Mohammad Sarwar said Sunday that 14 people from Christian-dominated slums in the city, Pakistan's largest, were hospitalised after drinking toxic liquor late Saturday night.

He said eight died and six others are being treated.

Sarwar said police have arrested two people for allegedly selling the toxic liquor and looking for those who distilled it illegally. He said the two suspects and all the victims were Christians.

The Sindh government took immediate notice of the incident, ready to take action against those responsible for the incident.

Liquor poisoning is common in Pakistan, where the Muslim majority is forbidden to consume or sell alcohol. Non-Muslims can drink but many poor buy the cheapest homemade liquor, which is often adulterated.

Just two weeks ago, at least 18 people were killed and around two dozen others suffered serious health issues after consuming toxic alcoholic drinks at two separate events in Batala colony, Faisalabad on July 28.

Victims were rushed to hospitals when they fell unconscious after drinking the moonshine at a birthday party and another gathering. Both of the events were held in private homes.