A well-known resort on the Coral Coast has committed to a comprehensive investigation following an alleged incident of “alcohol poisoning” that resulted in seven women being hospitalized. The Ministry of Health and local police have initiated inquiries and are expecting toxicology results to come in within two to three days.
As the media coverage grows and travel advisories circulate, Dr. Jemesa Tudrau, the permanent secretary for Health, emphasized the importance of not jumping to conclusions: “The real cause has not been identified as investigations continue.” Similarly, Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka urged against speculation, stating, “We’d like to wait for the results. We don’t want to speculate.”
The guests affected at Warwick Fiji, which included four Australians, an American, and two foreign residents, began feeling symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and neurological issues after consuming a cocktail on a Saturday. They were admitted to Aspen Medical Hospital in Lautoka the following day. So far, one guest has been released from the hospital, while two others are reported to be in stable condition.
In response to the situation, Nitin Goundar, the resort’s director of human resources, revealed that they are conducting an internal investigation and have access to CCTV footage, bar records, and other relevant data for review. He assured that the ingredients used in the drinks had been thoroughly examined and confirmed that they had been served in other beverages that day without any problems. Goundar described the incident as isolated, noting that out of all the guests who consumed the same drink, only seven were affected.
Prioritizing guest safety, the resort has operated for 45 years without any similar incidents and maintains that its staff are internationally trained and adhere to strict hygiene protocols. Goundar has pledged cooperation with police and health authorities during their investigations and reassured that resort operations are running smoothly despite the increased media scrutiny. He stated, “Guests are enjoying themselves, and we’ve explained the situation to them. Our priority is to ensure the safety and satisfaction of all our guests.”
This incident highlights the importance of both rapid response and thorough investigation in ensuring the safety of guests in the hospitality industry. The proactive measures taken by Warwick Fiji may serve to reassure current and potential visitors that their well-being remains a top priority.
In summary, while this situation is concerning, the resort’s commitment to addressing it transparently and responsibly suggests a hopeful resolution and a continued focus on guest safety in the future.
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