A tragic incident at a budget hostel in Bali has left one young tourist dead and at least ten others hospitalized following what is suspected to be a mass poisoning. The event unfolded at the Clandestino Hostel in Canggu, where guests reported severe illness after a communal dinner. Deqing Zhuoga, a 25-year-old tourist from China, was found unresponsive in her bunk on September 2, 2023, after experiencing violent symptoms, including vomiting and chills.
Zhuoga’s friend, Leila Li, who shared the room with her, was among those affected. Li spent five days in intensive care after developing similar symptoms. She stated, “She was too sick to move or call for help, lying in her bunk vomiting for hours while other guests scrambled for assistance.” It was only after her discharge from the hospital that Li learned of Zhuoga’s death.
The Kuta Police have identified several individuals who fell ill during the outbreak, including tourists from Germany and the Philippines. Inspector Ahmad of the Badung Police confirmed that due to the number of guests reporting identical symptoms, a thorough investigation into the hostel’s operations is being conducted.
Zhuoga’s condition was noted by the hostel’s receptionist, Maria Gores, who became concerned just before midnight. She called security to assist in transporting Zhuoga to a nearby clinic for initial treatment. According to Inspector Ahmad, the doctor prescribed medication but did not provide extensive care due to a lack of funds. Zhuoga returned to her bunk by 1:30 a.m., but when the receptionist checked on her the next morning, she was discovered unresponsive.
The official cause of death has been attributed to acute gastroenteritis and hypovolemic shock, but the exact source of the suspected poisoning is still under investigation. Li has claimed that her medical tests indicate pesticide poisoning, and she noted having observed a nearby room being quarantined for bedbug fumigation. This assertion has been echoed by multiple guests at the hostel.
Another tourist, Leslie Zhao, who checked in shortly after the initial hospitalizations, reported severe symptoms, saying she “almost died” and received no assistance when she called for help. The situation has raised concerns among guests, with many believing there may be attempts to cover up the severity of the issue.
Li expressed her frustration, stating, “They are trying to cover it up and I just want to warn people so this does not happen to anyone else.” Online reviews indicate that complaints regarding bedbugs at Clandestino Hostel predate this incident, with one guest noting an overheard conversation among cleaners about the infestation.
In response to the tragic events, Clandestino staff stated they have been fully cooperative with local authorities and are committed to supporting the ongoing investigation. A spokesperson for the hostel expressed condolences for those affected, describing the situation as “extremely difficult and delicate.”
The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns for tourists in Bali, a popular destination for travelers, particularly from Australia, with an estimated 1.5 million Australians expected to visit the island in 2024. While most visits are trouble-free, stories like Zhuoga’s serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers.
In a separate case, the death of Byron Haddow, a 23-year-old from Queensland, raised further alarm. His family has questioned the handling of his body after it was returned to Australia without his heart, prompting a coronial investigation.
As travelers prepare for trips to Bali, experts advise conducting thorough research on accommodations and remaining vigilant about any warning signs.
