Tragically, five international tourists, including a British lawyer, have lost their lives due to a suspected mass methanol poisoning incident at a nightclub in Laos.
Among those affected was Simone White, hailing from Orpington, Kent. She was one of several individuals hospitalized following the occurrence in the favored backpacking location of Vang Vieng last week.
The UK’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has confirmed its support for the family of the 28-year-old after her untimely passing.
Denmark’s foreign ministry reported the death of two of its nationals, while Australia announced that a young woman had passed away and another individual is currently in a critical condition due to the poisoning.
Bianca Jones, a 19-year-old from Australia, fell seriously ill last week in Vang Vieng, a town in the southeast Asian country that attracts many foreign backpackers and is located approximately two hours north of Vientiane, the capital.
She succumbed after being transferred to a hospital in neighboring Thailand on November 13.
A Thai police official stated, “The doctor who assessed her determined that the cause of death was methanol poisoning resulting from counterfeit alcohol.”
Two Australian tourists were hospitalized in Bangkok following the incident
“The concentration of methanol in her system was substantial, which caused brain swelling.”
“This is the worst nightmare for any parent, and no one should have to experience such a tragedy,” remarked Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in parliament.
“All Australians extend their deepest condolences to the grieving families during this heartbreaking time.”
Ms. Jones’ friend, Holly Bowles, also 19, is currently in critical condition at the hospital, stated Mr. Albanese.
Many affected individuals were lodged at the Nana Backpacker Hostel, where staff reported that guests had become ill after not checking out on November 13.
Counterfeit alcohol remains a significant issue in Laos, prompting warnings from the governments of Australia and the UK for their citizens to exercise caution when consuming drinks in the area.
Methanol is a hazardous alcohol used industrially as a solvent, pesticide, and alternative energy source, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Additional reporting by PA
