11 Indians die in Georgia of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning

Twelve people, including 11 Indian nationals, died of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in an Indian restaurant in the ski resort of Gudauri in Georgia.

All the deceased were employees of the Indian restaurant, Haveli, at Gudauri on the Georgia-Russia border.

The Indian Embassy in Georgia said it had learnt about the death of the Indian nationals in Gudauri. “Deepest condolences to the bereaved families. Mission is in touch with the local authorities to get details of the Indian nationals who lost their lives. All possible assistance will be given,” the embassy said on X.

The Interior Ministry of Georgia said the deaths occurred in the resting area on the second floor of the Indian restaurant. The bodies of 12 people employed in the same facility were found.

There are no signs of body injuries or violence, the statement said, adding, “According to preliminary information, a power generator was placed in an indoor area, a closed space near the bedrooms, which was turned on yesterday, probably after the power supply was turned off.”

Power generators are supposed to be run only outdoors because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from fumes of the exhaust.

Of the 12 deceased, 11 are citizens of foreign countries, and one is a citizen of Georgia, the statement by the Interior Ministry of Georgia said.

A forensic medical examination will determine the exact cause of death.

The ministry said it was probing the matter under Article 116 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which implies negligent manslaughter.