One Tourist Dead and Several Others Hospitalized Following Suspected Poisoning at Bali Hostel
A tragic incident at a popular backpacker hostel in Bali has resulted in the death of a 25-year-old tourist and the hospitalization of multiple others due to suspected poisoning, authorities and eyewitnesses report.
The victim, identified as Deqing Zhuoga from China, was staying at the budget-friendly Clandestino Hostel located in the coastal village of Canggu. Reports indicate that following a communal dinner at the hostel, Zhuoga began experiencing severe symptoms including intense vomiting and chills.
Local police confirmed that Zhuoga’s condition deteriorated rapidly. Late on the night of September 1, hostel staff, concerned about her health, transported her to a nearby clinic where initial treatment was provided. However, due to financial constraints, the medical care was limited to prescribed medication. Tragically, Zhuoga was found deceased in her room during the early hours of September 2. Authorities have classified the official cause of death as acute gastroenteritis combined with hypovolaemic shock. Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, leading to abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, while hypovolaemic shock results from a critical loss of fluids or blood, causing organ failure if untreated.
Eyewitness accounts from other travelers suggest that the poisoning incident affected more than 20 guests, with at least ten individuals in serious condition. One such eyewitness, Leila Li, who shared a room with Zhuoga, herself was hospitalized and spent five days in intensive care. Li described the symptoms as consistent with both pesticide and food poisoning, noting that her condition fluctuated after multiple visits to medical facilities.
Guests from multiple countries, including Germany, Saudi Arabia, the Philippines, and China, were among those who fell ill following the dinner at the hostel. Reports have revealed that Zhuoga’s sister contacted the hostel seeking information after losing contact with her sibling. However, police had initially withheld details, and the victim’s body remained in a rural hospital freezer for over 20 days before family notification.
The Clandestino Hostel has faced previous criticism from visitors for hygiene concerns, notably claims of bedbug infestations. Following this incident, the room where Zhuoga died is currently under quarantine as investigations continue.
At the time of reporting, the hostel remains operational and continues to accept bookings for shared dormitory accommodations costing under $9 per night. Efforts to obtain comment from hostel management and the Indonesian National Police have not yet been successful.
This distressing event has raised serious concerns about health and safety standards at budget accommodations in popular tourist destinations. Authorities are expected to carry out a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the poisoning and to prevent any future tragedies.
Travelers are urged to exercise caution and remain vigilant about food safety and hostel conditions when visiting remote or budget establishments abroad.
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