In brief
The Australian government has issued a travel advisory warning tourists to avoid Tiger Vodka and Tiger Whisky in Laos due to serious safety concerns after several deaths from suspected methanol poisoning. This warning follows the tragic deaths of two Australian backpackers among others, prompting calls for stricter enforcement in regulating local liquor.
Australia has issued a serious warning for travellers heading to Laos, specifically advising against the consumption of Tiger Vodka and Tiger Whisky. This cautionary measure comes in the wake of a tragic series of deaths linked to suspected methanol poisoning, which has raised alarming health concerns for tourists. Australia's foreign affairs department highlighted the issue on its travel advisory website, stating that these spirits pose "serious safety concerns." The Laotian government has already taken action by banning the sale and consumption of these specific products as investigations unfold. The BBC has reached out to Laotian officials for further comments regarding the bans.Reports indicate that six individuals tragically passed away earlier this month in Vang Vieng, a popular destination for backpackers, after consuming shots of the locally produced vodka. Among the deceased were two young Australians—Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, both at the age of 19—who had been guests at the Nana Backpackers hostel. Following this incident, eight staff members from the hostel were detained, although no charges have been filed so far.Family members of the Australian victims are calling for accountability, urging the Laotian authorities to rigorously pursue the case. Mark Jones, father of one victim, expressed his relief about the ongoing developments, stating, "We cannot have our girls passing and this continuing to happen."The other victims included Simone White from the UK, James Louis Hutson from the US, and Danish nationals Anne-Sofie Orkild Coyman and Freja Vennervald Sorensen. While the investigation continues, it remains unclear how many others may be affected by the suspected methanol poisoning.Medical experts warn that methanol, a clear and odorless toxic chemical commonly found in bootleg alcohol, can be fatal even in small amounts, with as little as 25ml posing lethal risks. The UK's Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office has also updated its travel guidance to reflect the dangers associated with methanol laced alcohol in Laos. As the issue of counterfeit liquor gains recognition, both governments are under pressure to address the growing methanol poisoning problem across Southeast Asia.
