Vang Vieng methanol poisonings: Laos government breaks silence on party town tourist deaths

Simone White, 28, from Orpington, Kent, was one of a number of people taken to hospital after the incident in the popular backpacking town of Vang Vieng last week

The Laos government has expressed its deep sorrow over the deaths of six individuals, including a British lawyer, due to suspected methanol poisoning.

Simone White, 28, hailing from Orpington, Kent, was among several people rushed to hospital following the incident in the popular backpacker destination of Vang Vieng last week.

The manager and owner of a local hostel have been taken into custody by Laos police in relation to the death of Ms White and five others, who are also thought to have been poisoned. In a media statement, the Laos government conveyed its profound sadness over the demise of foreign tourists and extended condolences to their families.

It further stated that investigations are underway to uncover the causes of the incident and ensure justice is served. On Friday, the parents of Ms White shared their devastation over the loss of their "devastated by the loss of our beautiful, kind and loving daughter".

They described Simone as unique with an incredible zest for life. "She was a soul who gave so much to so many and was loved by her family, friends and colleagues."

"Simone has been taken from us too soon, she will be sorely missed by her brother, grandmother and entire family."

"Our hearts go out to all other families who have been affected by this terrible tragedy."

An officer from Vang Vieng’s Tourism Police office confirmed that while no charges have been filed yet, several individuals have been detained in connection with the case.

The manager and owner of the Nana Backpacker Hostel, which remains open but isn't accepting new visitors, were taken in for questioning following a tragic incident. Ms. White, a lawyer at the esteemed Squire Patton Boggs, sadly lost her life.

Her contributions involved commercial matters and intellectual property law issues, as per the firm's website. Paying tribute to their colleague, the law firm remarked that Ms. White was a "talented colleague with a bright future ahead of her and someone who epitomised (our firm’s) values".

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is extending consular services to Brits hospitalised post the incident and their kin. Tragically, five others have also perished, including two Australians, an American, and two Danish holiday-makers.

The FCDO is liaising with local officials concerning the British citizens impacted. Toxicology reports suggest the victims consumed methanol-laced drinks, a dangerous substance unscrupulous bars often swap for ethanol, which can be fatal.

Following concerns on November 13 when the women didn't check out, Duc Toan, the hostel's manager, reported they immediately arranged for hospital transport after learning the ladies felt sick, having partaken in free Lao vodka shots offered by the establishment two days prior.

He dismissed that any other guest had raised concerns, pointing out that after the alleged incident, the purported victims still enjoyed a night out, only returning during the wee hours. Over in Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed parliament to announce the sad news that 19 year old Bianca Jones passed away in a Thai hospital following an emergency evacuation from Vang Vieng.

In a grim update on Friday, reports surfaced of another Australian succumbing to the tragic event. The Australian government has acknowledged that "several foreign nationals" have suffered methanol poisoning.

While the US State Department verified an American's death, the Danish Foreign Ministry disclosed the demise of two Danes in "the incident in Laos"; however, both entities refrained from directly tying these passings to the methanol poisoning that claimed Ms Jones's life. The deadly toxicity was confirmed by Thai officials who cited "brain swelling due to high levels of methanol found in her system" as the cause of Ms Jones's death.

Laos, hemmed in and economically challenged, remains a hotbed for tourists, particularly Vang Vieng, which draws backpackers with its vibrant party scene and thrill-seeking activities. Yet, details remain scant courtesy of Laotian officials, with the nation's one-party communist regime maintaining a firm grip on information flow, thwarting any oppositional forces.