Australia has taken strong action after two Melbourne teenagers, Holly Morton-Bowles and Bianca Jones, died from methanol poisoning in Laos in November 2024. The 19-year-olds became sick after drinking tainted alcohol at Nana Backpackers Hostel in Vang Vieng. Four other foreign tourists, including visitors from Britain, the United States, and Denmark, also died. In January, ten hostel workers were found guilty of destroying evidence and were given suspended sentences and small fines of about 130 US dollars. No one was charged over the deaths, which angered the families, who called the outcome an “absolute injustice.” The Australian government apologized for failing to properly inform the families about the court hearings. Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Australia has raised the issue directly with Laos and will send senior diplomat Pablo Kang as a special envoy to explore all options. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government will continue to support the families and seek justice.

Pray for the perpetrators behind this violence to be made accountable for their evil acts. Pray for oneness and unity among the authorities of Laos and Australia to do justice to the families of the deceased victims in the allegation (The Holy Bible, Psalm 140:12).

Pray for the lawmakers to implement more stringent measures to ban the poisonous drinks in Laos. Pray for the Laotian government to take necessary action to educate the people about the hazardous drinks (The Holy Bible, Proverbs 24:6).

News Source: The Guardian

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