Laos Says 6 Tourist Deaths Cannot Be Proven as Methanol Poisoning Without Autopsies
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jul 18
Laos Says 6 Tourist Deaths Cannot Be Proven as Methanol Poisoning Without Autopsies
3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jul 18
Summary
Six backpacker deaths in Vang Vieng in November 2024 cannot be tied to any individual or specific cause, Laos' Public Security Ministry said, because no autopsies were conducted.
The ministry said investigators still found excessive methanol in vodka from the distillery involved, where free shots are thought to have poisoned a Briton, two Australians, two Danes and an American.
Charges so far target the distillery owner for selling harmful food products and running an illegal business, carrying up to one year in jail and a £829 fine, but not for the deaths.
Australia called that outcome deeply frustrating and bitterly disappointing and summoned Laos' ambassador, while 10 people linked to the Nana Backpacker Hostel earlier received suspended sentences for destroying evidence.
The case has sharpened travel warnings over methanol-tainted alcohol in Southeast Asia, including a new British government campaign launched last week.