The ingredients used in the cocktail consumed by the seven guests at Warwick Resort, along with their blood and urine samples, have been sent to New Zealand for further testing after initial tests found no evidence of illicit substances.
A government statement says these tests require specialised equipment that is not currently available in Fiji and the process may take up to three weeks to complete, with full results expected to become available afterwards.
It says the Fijian authorities must be given adequate time to continue their investigations to ensure the integrity of the process.
While acknowledging reports from affected guests requesting the release of their individual test results, the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation says they are actively collaborating with relevant local authorities, including the Fiji Police Force and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, to determine the best and most efficient way to facilitate these requests.
They say once the test results are finalised, priority will be given to updating the affected tourists and their respective high commissions and embassies through diplomatic channels.
The Ministry says legal counsel will also be sought to determine what elements of the private data can be made public to ensure compliance with privacy laws.
They also urge Fiji’s neighbours from major source tourism markets to review their travel advisories, particularly the continued use of the term “methanol poisoning”, which has been ruled out through initial investigations.
The Ministry adds they are working closely with the Ministry of Health, the Fiji Police Force, Tourism Fiji, and the resort to maintain and reinforce Fiji’s reputation as a safe destination for all travellers.
