Key facts
- Two Australian teenagers died in Laos in 2024 after consuming methanol-contaminated alcohol.
- Four other foreign nationals also died in the incident.
- Laotian authorities are expected to pursue lesser charges carrying a maximum of one year in jail and a A$1,600 fine.
- Australia summoned Laos' ambassador to Canberra and expressed deep frustration over the expected charges.
- Foreign Minister Penny Wong will raise the issue with her Lao counterpart at an upcoming ASEAN meeting.
Australia has summoned Laos' ambassador to Canberra, expressing "deep frustration and bitter disappointment" over the expected lesser charges in relation to the methanol poisoning deaths of two Australian teenagers and four other foreign nationals. Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, both 19, died in 2024 after consuming contaminated alcohol in Vang Vieng, a popular backpacker destination. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that charges should reflect the tragedy's gravity and that she would raise the issue directly with her Lao counterpart. Laotian officials may charge those allegedly responsible with offences carrying a maximum of one year in jail and a fine of A$1,600, a prospect that has reportedly left the victims' families "furious."