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The brother of Simone White, a British tourist who tragically died following a methanol poisoning incident in Laos, has expressed deep frustration over the lenient penalties imposed on those connected to the case. Simone, aged 28, was among six individuals who lost their lives after consuming free shots offered at the Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng in November 2024. The UK government recently informed Simone’s family that ten people charged with destroying evidence received suspended sentences and fines of $185 (£135) each, with no further prosecution planned.
Zak White, Simone’s brother, told BBC Newsbeat that the family does not expect a thorough investigation or a fair outcome. Simone, a trainee lawyer, had been visiting Laos with her childhood friend Bethany Clarke, who was also affected by the incident after both consumed what is believed to have been methanol-laced alcohol. Methanol, a toxic chemical sometimes illegally added to alcoholic drinks to reduce production costs, caused severe health issues, leading to Simone being placed on life support before her death.
Since the tragedy, Bethany and Simone’s relatives have campaigned for increased awareness of methanol’s dangers and for clear answers from Lao authorities. According to an update from the UK Foreign Office, thirteen suspects were initially arrested, with ten individuals connected to the hostel convicted of evidence destruction. The owner of the distillery thought to have supplied the methanol is still awaiting trial. Bethany, speaking from Australia, described the news as provoking “pure frustration” and “anger,” noting that it appears nobody will be held criminally responsible for the deaths or serious injuries that resulted.
Zak and Bethany have criticized the slow and opaque response from the Lao authorities. Zak said the family had anticipated a disappointing resolution due to the authorities’ reluctance to cooperate fully. Meanwhile, the Lao Ministry of Public Security stated that the hostel remains closed pending the completion of court proceedings, though it’s unclear whether this includes trials involving the distillery owner. Despite this, the hostel appeared listed under new ownership on accommodation websites but was later removed due to irregularities. The UK Foreign Office minister, Hamish Falconer, acknowledged the families’ disappointment and assured that the UK government continues to press Laos for stronger action against those responsible for selling tainted alcohol
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