Laos: Government mourns death of six tourists in methanol poisoning incident

The government of Laos expressed its sorrow on Saturday following the deaths of six foreign tourists from possible methanol poisoning.

The government said in a statement that it "expresses its sincere sympathy and condolences to the families of the deceased tourists."

Two Australians, two Danes, an American, and a Briton have died following a night out in Vang Vieng, a small town north of the capital of Vientiane. 

About a dozen foreigners had to be rushed to the hospital since November 12. Among the victims was 19-year-old Australian Holly Bowles, who died in a Bangkok hospital.

Authorities investigate methanol-laced alcohol  

The Laos government statement expressed "importance and attention to the safety of domestic and foreign tourists" and said it has launched an investigation into the incidents and aims to "bring the perpetrators to justice in accordance with the law."

Authorities have detained the Vietnamese manager of the Nana Backpackers Hostel, where the tourists were staying, for questioning, but no charges have been filed.

The high season is about to start in Laos, and one hotel manager said more people are arriving dailyImage: Anupam Nath/AP/dpa/picture alliance

Life returning to normal amid international warnings

Methanol, a toxic substance, is sometimes illicitly added to alcohol to boost its potency.

Australia and the UK have issued warnings to their citizens about methanol risks while consuming alcohol in Laos.

However, in Vang Vieng, a popular backpacker destination, it's life as usual.

"I heard the news, but everything is normal here," Michael, a hotel manager told the AFP news agency on Friday. "The high season is about to start, so we are welcoming more tourists every day."

ss/sms (AFP, LUSA)