Patna, Nov 6 - Ten people have died in the last three days in Siwan district of Bihar after drinking moonshine, police said Friday.

More than 12 others are seriously ill and battling for their life in various hospitals, a police officer said.

"It appears that they died after consuming spurious liquor. Police are investigating," Siwan Superintendent of Police Amit Kumar Jain said.

According to an official in Siwan district administration, the deaths took place in Nawalpur Mohalla, Naya Bazaar and Siswan Dhala of Siwan, about 150 km from here.

"Five people died on Nov 3 and another five on Nov 4. It all started after some people complained of stomach pain followed by vomiting," another police officer said.

Jain said eight people have been arrested for selling moonshine. "Police have sealed several liquor manufacturing units and raided several liquor shops to collect samples for investigation," he said.

However, Siwan District Magistrate Bala Murugam said he could confirm the deaths of six people only. (IANS)