(Laos, 19th) In response to the 2024 suspected methanol poisoning historic case that led to the deaths of six foreign tourists, the Lao Ministry of Public Security issued a new statement saying that due to the refusal of the deceased’s families to allow authorities to conduct autopsies, the investigation lacks crucial forensic evidence. As a result, so far it has not been possible to determine those responsible for this mass death incident or the exact cause of death.
On November 12, 2024, a suspected methanol poisoning incident occurred in Vang Vieng, a backpacker paradise about two hours north of the Lao capital Vientiane. Two Danes, two Australians, one Briton, and one American died after consuming complimentary drinks provided at a backpacker hostel, with more than ten other foreign tourists suffering methanol poisoning.
According to AFP, the Lao Ministry of Public Security stated on Saturday (July 18): “To date, authorities have not obtained any evidence to determine whether these deaths...were caused by the actions of any individual or by any specific reason.”
“This is because the authorities were unable to perform autopsies on the deceased, resulting in a lack of forensic evidence needed to determine the cause of death.”
However, authorities said that the Ministry of Health’s Food and Drug Research Center found excessive methanol in Tiger Vodka.
In Laos, counterfeit famous liquor brands and homemade strong alcohol have long been problems.
Methanol is a toxic industrial chemical with a similar odor to ethanol, but is much cheaper. Drinking it beyond certain doses can lead to blindness, liver damage, or even death.
According to AFP, the Lao Ministry of Public Security stated on Saturday (July 18): “To date, authorities have not obtained any evidence to determine whether these deaths...were caused by the actions of any individual or by any specific reason.”
“This is because the authorities were unable to perform autopsies on the deceased, resulting in a lack of forensic evidence needed to determine the cause of death.”
However, authorities said that the Ministry of Health’s Food and Drug Research Center found excessive methanol in Tiger Vodka.
In Laos, counterfeit famous liquor brands and homemade strong alcohol have long been problems.
Methanol is a toxic industrial chemical with a similar odor to ethanol, but is much cheaper. Drinking it beyond certain doses can lead to blindness, liver damage, or even death.