November 26th 2024.
In a shocking turn of events, eight people have been arrested by the Laos police in connection to the deaths of six tourists and the serious illness of ten others due to methanol poisoning. The group had consumed homemade alcohol at the popular backpacker's destination, Vang Vieng, which was later found to contain methanol. This former farming town has transformed into a vibrant party spot for backpackers over the past two decades.
The head of security forces in the Vang Vien district, Phut Buathong Boriban, revealed that the eight staff members of NANA Backpackers Hostel, where the victims were staying, have been taken into custody. However, no charges have been filed yet. It was reported that the guests were given free shots at the hostel bar on November 11, which led to their sudden illness.
It is common for methanol to be disguised as a legitimate drink and sold to tourists. Shockingly, just 4ml of methanol can cause permanent blindness, while a small 30ml measure, equivalent to a UK shot, can prove to be fatal. Among the victims were British lawyer Simone White, who was backpacking through the country and staying at the Nana Backpacker Hostel. The 28-year-old lawyer from Kent had taken a shot at the bar and later fell ill. Despite efforts to save her, she tragically passed away.
The list of victims also includes Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, both of whom lost their lives to the methanol poisoning. Holly Bowles, a 19-year-old, was treated by Dr Yaher from the district hospital in Vang Vieng. According to him, she was disoriented and sleepy when she arrived at the hospital. She was unable to recall what she had eaten or drank, which led Dr Yaher to suspect that she may have consumed too many cannabis-infused gummies, a common indulgence among tourists on the popular 'banana pancake trail'. However, within 30 minutes of her arrival, she had a seizure and slipped into a coma.
As more details emerge, it has been revealed that the Nana Backpackers Hostel also offers food and drinks at their bar on the premises. One woman, who had fallen ill after consuming ethanol at the hostel, shared her harrowing experience. She recalls experiencing temporary blindness, vomiting, and difficulty breathing after drinking the contaminated alcohol. She initially assumed that it was a severe hangover and spent the day in her room, constantly vomiting. It was only when her vision was affected, and her boyfriend urged her to seek medical help that she realized the severity of her condition.
The mass methanol poisoning at Nana Backpackers Hostel has sent shockwaves through the backpacking community and raised concerns about the safety and regulations surrounding alcohol consumption in popular tourist spots. As the investigation continues and justice is sought for the victims, authorities and travelers alike are left questioning the safety of indulging in a drink at the bar.
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