An investigation is underway at the five-star Warwick Fiji resort after seven guests, including four Australians, required hospitalization following suspected poisoning from cocktails served at the hotel bar on Saturday. The incident has prompted police involvement and raised concerns about beverage safety at tourist establishments.
The affected guests, ranging in age from 18 to 56, experienced nausea, vomiting, and neurological symptoms after consuming drinks at the resort. While five patients have since been discharged, two remain in stable condition in Lautoka Hospital’s intensive care unit, according to Deputy Prime Minister Viliame R. Gavoka.
David Sandoe, whose daughter and granddaughter were among those affected, told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation that the incidents occurred after a group consumed piña colada cocktails in the resort’s lounge. The case bears concerning similarities to recent fatal methanol poisoning incidents in Laos that claimed six tourist lives, though Fiji’s health authorities say it’s too early to determine the specific cause.
The Warwick Fiji, where luxury suites command around $500 per night, has stated it’s taking the incident “very seriously” while maintaining it hasn’t altered drink ingredients or quality. Gavoka emphasized the isolated nature of the event, noting that no other similar incidents have been reported across Fiji, which welcomes nearly a million tourists annually.
Australian officials have updated their travel advisory for Fiji, recommending vigilance regarding drink spiking and alcohol poisoning. Treasurer Jim Chalmers confirmed that Australian consular officials are providing support to the affected citizens.
The incident comes at a time of heightened awareness about alcohol safety in tourist destinations following the recent tragic deaths in Laos that prompted international warnings about consuming alcohol abroad. Fiji’s health ministry and law enforcement continue their investigation to determine the exact cause of the poisoning.
