Australia denounced Laos’ response to a 2024 tainted alcohol poisoning that killed six tourists, saying it is “bitterly disappointed” the country is not pressing stronger charges.
Canberra summoned the Laos ambassador and dispatched an envoy to Laos to convey the government’s objections and urge justice for the two Australian women who died, the government said in a statement yesterday.
Two Danish citizens, an American, a Briton and two Australians – Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones – died following what media said was the tourists’ night out on the town in Vang Vieng in November 2024.
The Australian government did not specify the charges to be laid against suspects in the alleged methanol-related poisoning but said it had been in “regular contact” with the Laos authorities.
Alcohol tainted with methanol was suspected to be the cause of the deaths.
Methanol is a toxic alcohol that can be added to liquor to increase its potency but can cause blindness, liver damage and death.
Public broadcaster ABC and other Australian media said Laos would press charges that collectively carry penalties of up to one year in jail and a fine equal to A$1,600 (RM4,557).
The media cited Australian foreign ministry letters sent to the families of the two citizens killed, informing them that Laos would charge the operator of the alcohol brand with operating illegally.
The operator has reportedly denied any responsibility.
Wong said she would again put Australia’s views directly to her Laos counterpart at a South-East Asian ministerial meeting in Manila next week. — AFP
