Laos vows justice after mass poisoning

The Laotian government has promised to bring perpetrators to justice after a mass poisoning that has killed six tourists including two Australians.

Australians Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, both 19, died in Thai hospitals this week after falling ill with suspected methanol poisoning.

The pair, who were on a “trip of a lifetime” travelling across South-East Asia, are believed to have consumed tainted alcohol while staying in popular tourist hotspot Vang Vieng in Laos.

Four other international tourists died this month from the suspected poisoning, including British woman Simone White, an American man and two Danes.

The Laotian government released a statement on Saturday, saying it was “profoundly saddened over the loss of lives of foreign tourists”.

“The government of the Lao PDR has been conducting investigations to find causes of the incident and to bring the perpetrators to justice in accordance with the law,” it said.

Very little information has been released about the investigation with scarce details released on the number of tourists affected and the possible source of the methanol-laced drinks.

Bianca’s dad Mark Jones urged the Laos government to investigate the incident “to the fullest extent”.

“We can’t have the passing of our daughter … not lead to change to protect others.”

Vang Vieng has been a popular holiday spot backpackers for years.

Holly and Bianca had travelled to the small town 130km north of Vientiane earlier this month as part of their adventure.

The teenager’s “lust for life and adventure” had “cruelly been cut short”.

“Our daughter was on the trip of a lifetime with one of her best mates,” Mr Jones said.

“This was meant to be a trip full of lifelong memories, and was to be the first of many.

“Bianca wanted to explore the world, meet new friends, lead and create change for good.”

They died in separate hospitals after being found sick in their room at the Nana Backpacker Hostel on November 13.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who made a statement in parliament on Thursday following Bianca’s death, has released a new statement on Friday night.

“I am saddened to hear of the tragic passing of Holly Bowles,” the statement said.

“This should have been a trip filled with joy and wonderful memories – it is beyond sad that is it not to be.

“My thoughts and my deepest sympathies are with her family and her friends.

“I am sure all Australians are thinking of Holly and her best friend Bianca Jones who tragically passed away yesterday.

“The Australian government will continue to provide support Holly and Bianca’s families and the local authorities.”