No illicit substances or methanol found in toxicology report – Gavoka

Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka has confirmed that no illicit substances or methanol were found in the ingredients or liquor substance in the alleged spiked cocktail incident at Warwick Resort.

This is following the toxicology test conducted by the Fiji Police Force.

Gavoka assured that the six affected tourists and one local have been fully recovered and were discharged.

He says this is significant relief and they are grateful for the swift medical care and attention provided to them and also issued an apology, emphasising that no tourist expects to spend their holiday in illness.

The Deputy Prime Minister says that the findings, which ruled out alcohol poisoning, were reassuring and offered good news for Fiji, reassuring the global community about the safety of the destination.

While the toxicology results have cleared the substances, Permanent Secretary for Health Dr. Jemesa Tudravu says that investigations are still ongoing to determine the cause of the incident.

He explained that symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and neurological issues could be because of various factors, including infections.

The Permanent Secretary says that further investigations are ongoing to get the definitive cause.

Dr. Tudravu also extended his gratitude to the medical staff at Lautoka and Sigatoka Hospitals for their dedicated care in managing the situation.