Aussies are being urged to exercise a “high degree of caution” in Laos after the government raised its warning level about travelling to the country.
The alert comes as authorities in the Asian country reportedly consider criminal charges in the 2024 methanol poisoning of six tourists, including two Australian teenagers.
Holly Morton-Bowles and Bianca Jones died after the two 19-year-olds were served alcohol laced with methanol at Nana Backpacker Hostel.
According to reports over the weekend, authorities in Laos have charged the owner of a distillery connected to the incident, who is allegedly facing a year in jail and a fine of $1,600.
“We’ve reviewed our advice for Laos and have raised the overall travel advice level,” said a statement on the government’s Smartraveller website.
“We now advise exercise a high degree of caution due to crime, the risk of methanol poisoning and ongoing concerns around lack of transparency in the justice system. Higher levels apply in some areas.
“The Lao legal system may not provide transparency or justice, particularly in criminal cases. Authorities may apply the law inconsistently.
“Be alert to the potential risks, particularly with spirit-based drinks, including cocktails.
“Lao authorities issued an order prohibiting the sale and consumption of Tiger Vodka and Tiger Whisky due to their concerns about these products being a health risk.
“Australians should avoid consuming these products due to these serious safety concerns.”
The parents of the two Aussie teenagers reacted angrily when told of the new development in Laos.
“We’re really just trying to process the whole thing, to be perfectly honest,” Sean Bowles told Nine’s Today.
“We got this news through yesterday and it was just devastating for us. For me, it’s hard to fathom … $1,600 bucks, potentially one year in prison for taking not just the two lives here but others as well.”
