Laos Hostel Staff Detained After Six Tourists Die from Suspected Methanol Poisoning

Authorities investigate deaths linked to tainted alcohol in Vang Vieng, as grieving families demand accountability and raise awareness about methanol dangers.

Eight staff members of Nana Backpackers Hostel, all Vietnamese nationals, have been detained in connection with the deaths of six foreign tourists from suspected methanol poisoning.
The victims, including two Australians, two Danes, a Briton, and an American, reportedly consumed methanol-laced alcohol during their stay in the popular backpacker destination of Vang Vieng.
Methanol, a toxic substance sometimes added to bootleg alcohol to cut costs, can cause severe poisoning, blindness, or death even in small quantities.
The Laos government has expressed condolences and pledged to investigate the incident, but limited transparency has frustrated families and travelers seeking answers.
Several countries, including Australia, the UK, and the US, have issued travel warnings about the risks of consuming alcohol in Laos, while families of victims are raising funds to promote awareness of methanol poisoning dangers.