In an interview with 9News, the ex-manager of Nana Backpacker, known as Pikachu, acknowledged his involvement with a 4-star hotel situated in Vang Vieng’s lively party district.
He mentioned that the resort would open in the forthcoming months; however, a quick check on travel websites shows that rooms are available for booking as early as tonight.
The revelations are another blow for the Australian families and their search for justice.
“As parents of Holly and Bianca we are angered at the recent news from Laos,” the families said in a joint statement.
“We are disappointed in the Australian government as we are again the last to know.”
Laos police are understood to have recommended charges against 13 people from Nana’s Hostel and a distillery.
It is now up to local prosecutors to decide whether they will proceed with the case.
Referring to the investigation into the deaths Pikachu said: “It’s very bad for the police in Laos checking everything.”
He maintains he and his staff at the backpackers did nothing wrong.
He told 9News they have now been freed and “some are home… and nobody is working right now.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade issued a statement saying that their officials continue to engage with Laos authorities to emphasize the need for a transparent and comprehensive investigation.
“The Australian Government will continue to do everything possible to assist Holly and Bianca’s families, and to reduce the risks of a tragedy like this happening again,” a DFAT spokesperson said.
