Laos unable to determine cause of tourist deaths due to lack of autopsies

Laos authorities have stated they cannot establish the cause of death of several tourists who died in 2024 and were linked to methanol poisoning. Officials cited the absence of autopsies as the primary reason for their inability to reach a conclusion. The deaths had raised international concern, with suspicions pointing toward tainted alcoholic drinks containing methanol. Without forensic evidence, Laos has no official confirmation of poisoning. The case has highlighted gaps in the country's response to tourist safety incidents.