Sri Lanka investigates deaths of two tourists linked to hostel fumigation

Two female tourists, Ebony McIntosh from the UK and Nadine Raguse from Germany, tragically died after falling ill at a hostel in Colombo, Sri Lanka, with suspicions of pesticide poisoning linked to recent fumigation for bedbugs in their rooms. Ebony, 24, experienced severe symptoms before being hospitalized, but passed away on February 1, followed shortly by Nadine, 26. Sri Lankan police are investigating the possibility that toxic pesticides used during the fumigation contributed to their deaths, which occurred after a room next to theirs was treated on January 30. The hostel has been closed for investigation, and autopsies will be conducted once Ebony's family arrives in Sri Lanka. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is in contact with local authorities and supporting the families. Tributes pour in for the women, highlighting their vibrant lives and the tragedy of their untimely deaths.