Six people found dead in Bangkok luxury hotel, possibly from poisoning, police investigate “cult activities”

Six people, including two Vietnamese Americans and four Vietnamese citizens, were found dead and foaming at the mouth in a luxury hotel in Thailand on Tuesday. Police are investigating the case as deliberate poisoning.

Local news channel Khaosod English reported that police are investigating whether possible “cult activities” or business problems could be responsible for the mysterious deaths after the bodies were discovered shortly after 5:30 p.m. at the five-star Grand Hyatt Erawan hotel in Bangkok.

Major General Theeradet Thumsuthee, head of investigations at the Metropolitan Police Bureau, confirmed that they were probably poisoned and had apparently drunk coffee and tea in the room.

The guests had checked into different rooms over the weekend, but their bodies were found in one room with no signs of a struggle, said Bangkok police chief Lt. Gen. Thiti Sangsawang.

“This was not self-harm, but someone caused the death,” Thiti said, adding that police are currently looking for a seventh person, also a Vietnamese national, who was linked to the group.

A hotel maid made the gruesome discovery when the three men and three women did not check out on time.

Her luggage was found packed and ready for collection next to the door, the Thiti said.

Investigators are examining several drinks found in the room after traces of “suspicious substances” were discovered floating in the cups and glasses.

Thiti noted that food ordered through room service had not been touched.

Two of the guests – Chong Sherine, 56, and Dang Hung Van, 55 – were both American citizens, the Bangkok Post reported. The four others were identified as Nguyen Thi Phuong Lan, 47; Pham Hong Thanh, 49; Tran Dinh Phu, 37; and Nguyen Thi Phuong, 46.

It is not known what relationship the dead people have to each other.

“We have been following their every move since they left the plane,” Thiti said.

Another person, believed to be a tour guide, was subsequently reportedly taken into police custody for questioning, although it was not clear whether he was a suspect.