Calls to Ban Travel to Laos After Suspected Methanol Poisoning Incident

In response to the suspected methanol poisoning that resulted in multiple deaths in Laos, Simone White’s family is urging the UK government to blacklist Laos for travel. This call follows reports of inadequate investigation and transparency from Lao authorities regarding the incident. Travelers are urged to consider potential risks associated with methanol, a dangerous substance found in contaminated spirits.

The mother and traveling companion of Simone White, a British lawyer who died from suspected methanol poisoning in Laos, are urging the UK government to designate Laos as a no-travel destination. Alongside White, five others, including two Australians, two Danes, and an American, succumbed to health issues while at the Nana Backpacker Hostel, where allegedly tainted spirits were served. Methanol, a lethal substance, can cause serious health complications and death, according to the UK Health Security Agency.

Simone was accompanied by her friend Bethany Clarke, who recently recovered after also being hospitalized. They are advocating for increased awareness regarding methanol risks and urging the Foreign Office to advise against travel to Laos. Clarke expressed her concerns, stating, “The UK should impose a ban on trips to Laos. The Lao authorities are failing to be honest and transparent about what’s happened.”

If the Foreign Office issues such a warning, it would invalidate most travel insurance policies, restricting access to Laos for numerous British travelers. This demand arises amid reports indicating no charges would be filed against 11 individuals arrested following the incident. Clarke mentioned that the detained individuals were unexpectedly released without any communication to the victims’ families.

A Danish father informed Clarke about a meeting between the British and Danish ambassadors regarding the incident, revealing that the 11 detainees had indeed been released. Furthermore, the investigation seemingly has not been pursued vigorously by the Lao government. The inquiry reported that the alcohol involved was tampered with at the hostel, raising further questions concerning the release of the staff.

Thavone Siharaj, deputy chief of the Lao Embassy in London, assured that there had been an investigation to ascertain the cause of the deaths, and the staff were released due to insufficient evidence for detention. He also noted that their passports are held by the police pending the investigation’s conclusion.

A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson confirmed support for the grieving family, emphasizing ongoing contact with local authorities. Junior Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer stated that the risks associated with methanol poisoning are included in travel advisories, noting that information on counterfeit alcohol risks was provided for several countries, including Laos.

Sue White expressed her hope for greater political pressure on the Lao government, highlighting the difficulty in obtaining justice. Methanol poisoning poses a risk in various locations frequented by travelers, and its tasteless nature makes detection challenging. Clarke and White are also calling for funding to develop testing strips for travelers to determine if their drinks contain methanol, as no easy detection method currently exists.

The tragic incident involving Simone White and others in Laos has prompted significant concern regarding methanol poisoning. The calls for the UK government to impose a travel ban highlight the perceived lack of transparency and accountability from Lao authorities in addressing the situation. With ongoing efforts to increase awareness and safety measures, advocates aim to protect travelers from the hidden dangers of contaminated alcohol. The families affected continue to seek justice and improve safety protocols for future travelers.

Original Source: www.inkl.com