Australia Summons Laos Envoy Over 1-Year Charges in 6 Methanol Deaths
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 17
Australia Summons Laos Envoy Over 1-Year Charges in 6 Methanol Deaths
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 17
Summary
Australia said it was “deeply frustrated and bitterly disappointed” after reports Laos plans charges carrying at most one year in jail and an A$1,600 fine over the 2024 methanol poisoning deaths of six backpackers.
Penny Wong summoned Laos’ ambassador in Canberra and dispatched special envoy Pablo Kang to Laos on Friday, with plans to press the issue again at an ASEAN meeting in Manila next week.
Bianca Jones and Holly Morton-Bowles, both 19, were among the victims after drinking free shots allegedly tainted with methanol at Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng; British, American and Danish tourists also died.
Ten people linked to the hostel had already received suspended sentences and $185 fines earlier this year for destroying evidence, while victims’ families said the expected new penalties devalue six lives and fall far short of justice.
Laos has not formally confirmed the charges, but authorities are expected to hold a press conference later Friday as pressure from Australia intensifies.