Backpacker found 'half eaten by lizard' thought to be 'cult' member
It's believed the Belgian backpacker who was found reportedly half eaten by lizards in Thailand was living with a 'cult' before her death.
Elise Dallemange, 30, was found dead in the jungles of the small Thailand paradise Koh Tao - dubbed 'Death Island' - on April 28, half eaten by lizards.
Police believe the 30-year-old took her own life but her mother Michele van Egten has since said she does not believe the official account of her daughter's death.
Elise is the seventh tourist found dead on the island in the past three years, prompting Ms van Egten to allege foul play.
In a Facebook post on a Thai community Facebook page, Ms van Egten said “please if you know something tell us”.
“She lived there for months with Guru Raaman Andreas from Germany and two female friends.”
It's alleged the local mafia rule the island where Dallemange ultimately died, with backpackers flocking to paradise to party.
Ms van Egten's claims have lead police to investigate further.
The sect it's alleged her daughter was a part of is described as a "cult movement" with controversial "guru" and alleged miracle worker Sathya Sai Baba at the helm.
The so-called "divinity in human form" has 1,200 worship centres set up across 126 countries which offer "spiritual advancement" and are dedicated to his controversial practices.
But Sathya Sai Baba, who was one of India's biggest spiritual leaders, came under criticism for allegedly using tricks to fool his followers.
The self-proclaimed 'God-man' also faced accusations of sexual abuse of young males and fraud, which he rejected as smear campaigns.
Several schools in Thailand have been set up to carry on his teachings, with a large number of worshippers living in the country.
Baba died in 2011.
Elise had been living at a yoga and tantra retreat with self-proclaimed Sathya Sai Baba "guru" Raaman Andreas on neighbouring full-moon party island Koh Phangan.
She was found wrapped in "old t-shirts or cotton shawls while an empty fuel bottle was found next to her".
"I don't know why she would have booked a transfer to Bangkok and then went into the jungle to commit suicide," Ms van Egten said.
"I am devastated by events. I am still waiting for the final autopsy report. We just want more information."
Mystery surrounds backpacker found dead, half eaten by lizards on Thailand's 'Death Island'
No suicide note or message were recovered and Michele is desperate for information surrounding the mysterious death.
Elise's bags mysteriously appear to have been loaded onto the ferry she was due to take, and arrived at Chumphon province where she should have caught a bus to the capital.
If you are concerned about the mental health of yourself or a loved one, seek support and information by calling Lifeline 13 11 14, Mensline 1300 789 978, or Kids Helpline 1800 551 800.
