The Australian government has expressed sharp dissatisfaction over Laos’ handling of the investigation into the deaths of six backpackers, including two Australians, who died after consuming methanol-laced alcohol in 2024.
Australians Bianca Jones and Holly Morton-Bowles, both 19, were among the victims who died at a hostel in Vang Vieng in November 2024, in what has become a high-profile case raising questions about accountability and justice.
Canberra said it is “deeply frustrated and bitterly disappointed” by reports that Laos is not pursuing more serious charges against those allegedly responsible. According to Australian media, the expected charges could carry penalties of up to one year in jail and a fine of A$1600 ($1100).
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed that Laos’ ambassador to Canberra has been summoned, signalling growing diplomatic pressure. While Laos has yet to formally confirm the charges, authorities are expected to address the case at a press conference later this week.
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“This devastating news will only add to the immense pain and grief suffered by the families and friends of Holly and Bianca,” Australia’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement. “We have consistently made clear our expectations that charges should reflect the gravity of the tragedy. This includes the Prime Minister and I expressing these expectations directly to our respective counterparts.”
The six victims, including tourists from the UK, US and Denmark, had reportedly consumed free drinks at the Nana Backpacker Hostel, a popular stop in the backpacking hub of Vang Vieng. Investigations suggest the drinks were contaminated with methanol, a toxic substance typically used in industrial products such as paint thinner but sometimes illegally added to alcohol.
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Earlier developments in the case had already drawn criticism. Ten individuals linked to the hostel were previously charged with destroying evidence, receiving suspended sentences and fines of $185 (£135) each — a penalty described by the brother of one victim as an “absolute joke”.
Fresh outrage followed reports that the most serious charges now under consideration would still only carry minimal penalties. Families of the victims have publicly voiced their anger and disbelief.
Bianca’s father, Mark Jones, told Australian broadcaster ABC that “[feeling] furious would be an understatement” while Holly’s father, Shaun Bowles, said it was “very hard to comprehend” the expected charges.
“To think that the lives of my daughter, and another five people, are worth less than a year in prison and less than $1,600,” Jones told the ABC. “I’m calling on the Australian government to do all they can to intervene. For Prime Minister Albanese to reach out to his counterpart in Laos to insist that some form of genuine justice is served for the deaths of two Australian citizens.”
Australia has since stepped up its response, appointing special envoy Pablo Kang to “explore all avenues” in the investigation. He is expected to travel to Laos to convey Australia’s objections directly.
Wong also indicated she will raise the issue with her Lao counterpart at an upcoming ASEAN meeting in Manila, underscoring the broader regional implications of the case.
The Laos embassy in Canberra has been contacted for comment, as scrutiny intensifies over how the country will proceed with prosecutions in one of the region’s most troubling recent tourist tragedies.
