In brief
The Australian government has raised alarms about the consumption of Tiger Vodka and Tiger Whisky in Laos after a disturbing series of deaths attributed to suspected methanol poisoning rocked the popular tourist destination of Vang Vieng.
On Friday, Australia's foreign affairs department updated its travel advisory, urging Australians to steer clear of these local liquors, emphasizing that Lao authorities have halted their sale and consumption citing health risks. This warning follows the tragic deaths of six individuals, including two Australian youths, Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, both aged 19. Reports indicate they were among those who ingested the locally produced alcohol at the Nana Backpackers hostel, which has since been shut down.In a response to the incidents, eight hostel staff members were reportedly detained; however, formal charges are yet to be announced. Families of the Australian victims have been vocal, pressing Lao officials to take continued action in the case. Mark Jones, father of victim Bianca Jones, expressed relief at the developments but reiterated the need for accountability: "We cannot have our girls passing and this continuing to happen."Aside from the Australian victims, the deceased include four other tourists from the UK, the US, and Denmark. Reports suggest these individuals might have consumed spirits contaminated with methanol, a lethal chemical often used in illicit alcohol production. Medical experts warn that ingestion of even a small amount of methanol can lead to life-threatening consequences.Revisions have also been made by the UK's Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office to its travel advice regarding Laos, alerting tourists about the risks of methanol poisoning and the prevalence of counterfeit liquor in the region. With Vang Vieng known as a hotspot for backpackers, visitors are now treading cautiously, heedful of the officials’ strong warnings to avoid local spirits altogether.
