Tourist Dies, Others Hospitalized After Suspected Mass Poisoning at Bali Hostel
A horrifying incident at a budget hostel in Bali has left one tourist dead and up to ten others seriously ill, prompting an ongoing police investigation into a suspected mass poisoning.
The tragedy unfolded in early September at the Clandestino Hostel, a lively, low-cost accommodation in Canggu—just a kilometre from Bali’s popular south-west coast beach. Known as “Canggu’s newest party hostel,” the establishment offers nightly parties and communal dinners aimed at solo travellers, with dorm beds priced at around $14 per night.
According to reports, 25-year-old Chinese guest Deqing Zhuoga became violently ill within hours of attending a communal dinner on September 1. She and several others experienced severe symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, and in some cases, bloody vomit. The situation quickly escalated, with Zhuoga described as being "too sick to move," confined to her bunk for hours while other guests urgently sought help.
Hostel security assisted by taking Zhuoga to a nearby medical centre, but due to financial constraints, she was only prescribed medication and returned to the hostel. Tragically, she was later found unresponsive in her room; despite attempts by staff to check her condition, she was pronounced dead early on September 2. The official cause of death was listed as acute gastroenteritis and hypovolaemic shock, but many question the accuracy of this diagnosis.
Among other victims was Zhuoga’s roommate, Leila Li, who also became severely ill and spent five days in intensive care. Li stated that doctors had confirmed both pesticide and food poisoning as contributing factors to her condition. Another traveller reportedly suffered septic shock, requiring intensive hospital care. In total, about a dozen travellers from various countries—including Germany, Saudi Arabia, the Philippines, and China—fell ill and were treated at multiple hospitals in Bali. No Australian tourists are believed to have been affected.
The poisoning is thought to be linked to fumigation efforts at the hostel following reports of a bed bug infestation in some dorm rooms before the incident. However, the precise source and nature of the poisoning remain unclear as authorities continue their investigation.
A spokesperson for Clandestino Hostel said the situation is “extremely difficult and delicate,” emphasizing their full cooperation with police and their desire for a swift resolution.
Balinese police have confirmed that an active investigation is underway. First Inspector Azarul Ahmad of Badung Police conveyed that authorities are thoroughly examining the case, which has sparked global concern among travellers and the tourism community.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential health risks travellers may face in budget accommodations and highlights the importance of proper safety and hygiene standards in the tourism sector.
What Happened at Clandestino Hostel?
- September 1: Communal dinner held at the hostel.
- Hours later: Multiple guests fell violently ill.
- Zhuoga and others suffered severe symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, and bloody vomiting.
- Zhuoga taken to a medical centre, prescribed medication, but returned to hostel due to lack of funds.
- Zhuoga found unresponsive later that night and pronounced dead early September 2.
- Up to a dozen other guests hospitalized; some required intensive care.
- Authorities suspect pesticide poisoning linked to recent fumigation efforts.
The investigation continues as officials work to determine exactly what caused this tragic outbreak of illness among young travellers enjoying Bali’s vibrant hostel scene.
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