Tragedy in Crete: Tourists suffering a poisoning after a drink mix‑up
Two Britons, two Dutchmen, and a German were hospitalised in critical condition in Crete. This was due to a bartender mixing a strong corrosive detergent into their drinks instead of alcohol. An investigation is underway, and the hotel restaurant has been closed.
9 October 2024 08:38
According to the Focus on Travel News portal, the tragic mistake occurred at a five-star hotel in Gouves, near Heraklion in Crete.
Five tourists ordered drinks at the bar. Instead of the expected beverages, they were served a highly corrosive agent.
Poisoning in Crete. Instead of strong alcoholic drinks, they drank detergent
The tourists, aged between 35 and 69, went to the hotel bar where they thought - they drank high-proof beverages.
Shortly after, all five began to feel very unwell. An ambulance was called to the hotel, and the men were taken to a university hospital near Heraklion.
The two Britons, two Dutchmen, and the German were admitted to the intensive care unit, with the condition of two being so serious that they required intubation.
Bartender detained, investigation ongoing
Local authorities detained the hotel manager and the bartender, who were questioned.
Reports indicate that the bartender poured liquid from a bottle labelled as a popular Greek liquor. He claims he did not know that it contained detergent. Initial lab tests revealed that the tourists were served a strong cleaning agent, causing severe internal damage.
Island authorities and police have launched a detailed investigation into the matter. Samples taken from the bar will undergo further testing. This aims to determine whether it was an accident or a deliberate act.
The bar has been closed for the duration of the investigation.
