A tragic incident in Laos has left a British lawyer among the six foreigners who lost their lives in suspected drink-spiking cases, prompting a warning from the Foreign Office. Reports reveal that a British solicitor, along with two Danish tourists, an American man, and two Australian teenagers, fell victim to consuming drinks contaminated with a deadly chemical, methanol.
The lawyer, identified as 28-year-old Simone White from Orpington, is reported to have become gravely ill after drinking free “Laos Tiger” vodka shots at a bar in Vang Vieng. Bethany Clarke, who was travelling with Simone, warned others to avoid local liquors after six individuals who drank at the same establishment ended up in the hospital with methanol poisoning.
Over 100 revelers were said to have received the free shots at a hostel in Vang Vieng, as per reports by the Mirror. The hostel’s owner, Duong Duc Toan, stated that the police had instructed all establishments to cease selling drinks in the area and were conducting checks on alcohol suppliers. Despite asserting innocence, Toan affirmed vigilance in hosting guests.
Tragically, a second Australian teenager, Holly Bowles, succumbed to suspected methanol poisoning, with her family expressing devastation at her passing. The fatalities also include Bianca Jones, a friend of Bowles, and Simone White from the UK, along with an American man and two Danish women, with suspicions pointing towards bootleg alcohol as the source of the poisonings.
Acknowledging the series of deaths, the US State Department confirmed an American casualty, while Denmark reported the loss of two citizens in the incident. The Foreign Office issued a caution on the region’s website, advising travellers to be wary of potential drink and food spiking occurrences and assuring support for the affected British woman’s family.
In a heartfelt statement, Holly Bowles’ family reflected on her ability to bring joy to many, finding solace in her positive impact on others. The tragedy has drawn attention to the dangers of unknowingly consuming contaminated beverages while abroad, prompting authorities to raise awareness and caution travellers about potential risks in certain destinations.
The spate of deaths in Laos serves as a poignant reminder of the hazards that can accompany recreational activities abroad, highlighting the importance of vigilance and discretion when partaking in unfamiliar food and drink offerings. The Foreign Office’s response and ongoing investigations aim to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the fatalities, as families mourn the loss of their loved ones and seek answers in the wake of this devastating incident.