Parents Urge Boycott of Laos After Methanol Poisoning Deaths

The families of two young Australian women, Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, who died from suspected methanol poisoning in Laos, are urging travelers to boycott the country due to a perceived lack of investigation and accountability from local authorities. Both families have expressed disappointment over the absence of updates regarding the case, revealing that 12 individuals previously detained have been released without any charges, raising concerns of a cover-up. They claim that the Lao authorities have not communicated with them and have excluded any local nationals from responsibility, despite evidence suggesting otherwise. The parents emphasized the need for Laos to ensure safety for tourists if they wish to attract visitors. They have also noted that some bars in the area have reopened while the investigation remains stagnant. Other families of victims from different nationalities, including Denmark and the U.S., share similar sentiments and support the call for boycotting Laos until the situation is addressed.