The Laos government has said it is “profoundly saddened” and is investigating the deaths of six people from suspected methanol poisoning, including a British lawyer.
A number of people were taken to hospital after the incident in the popular backpacking town of Vang Vieng last week. Police in Laos have detained the manager and owner of a hostel in connection with the deaths.
In a statement released to the media, the Laos government said it was “profoundly saddened” over the deaths of foreign tourists and offered its condolences to their families.
It added that is has been investigating “to find causes of the incident” and to “bring the perpetrators to justice.”
On Friday, the parents of the British woman that died said they are “devastated by the loss of [their] beautiful, kind and loving daughter.” In a statement, the parents added that their daughter “was one of a kind and had the most wonderful energy and spark for life.” “She was a soul who gave so much to so many and was loved by her family, friends and colleagues.”
An officer at Vang Vieng’s Tourism Police office said no charges have been filed but a “number of people” have been detained in the case.
Staff at the Nana Backpacker Hostel, which is still operating but not accepting new guests, confirmed the manager and owner were among those taken in for questioning. (DPA)
