The Canadian government is urging travellers to be cautious after six people died in Laos after consuming tainted alcohol.
On November 20, Global Affairs Canada issued a travel advisory warning travellers to “exercise a high degree of caution” about spiked food and drinks.
“In November 2024, several foreigners in Vang Vieng have been victims of suspected methanol-adulterated alcohol poisoning,” reads the statement.
According to CNN, the town of Vang Vieng is a popular destination for backpackers. Tourists from the UK, Australia, the US, and Denmark are among those who are believed to have died.
As a result, Canadians are being urged to remain vigilant if they choose to drink alcohol and to avoid “accepting free or extremely low-priced drinks.”
Gurkan Ergun/Shutterstock
“Only buy alcohol in sealed bottles and cans from reputable shops,” reads the advisory. “Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick.”
In a report by the Vientiane Times, the Lao government expressed sympathy and pledged to take action and to “hold wrongdoers accountable” for the deaths.
“The Government of the Lao PDR has been conducting investigations to find the causes of the incident and to bring the perpetrators to justice in accordance with the law,” reads the statement.
“The Government of the Lao PDR reaffirms that it always attaches importance and pays attention to the safety of both domestic and foreign tourists.”
The Canadian government has previously warned against spiked food and drinks in Laos.
“Some food and drinks, such as ‘happy pizzas’ and ‘special shakes,’ may contain unspecified amounts of opium and other unknown substances,” reads the travel advisory. “These items are sold in areas frequented by tourists, particularly in Vang Vieng.”
The advisory also warns against taking opiates that may be easily accessible.
“Foreigners, including Canadians, have died as a result of drug overdoses,” it states.