A fatal boat accident occurred in southern Vietnam on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of 15 Indian visitors. The vessel, a speedboat, was carrying a total of 32 Indian tourists and four crew members when it capsized approximately 400 meters (1,310 feet) from Hon May Rut Ngoai Island, situated near the country’s largest island, Phu Quoc.
Reports from local state media and eyewitnesses indicate that the situation was dire as the boat overturned amidst rough conditions, characterized by large waves in the area. Eyewitnesses told VN Express that nearby boats rushed to the scene and began pulling passengers from the water, before border guards, the navy, coast guard and other rescue agencies arrived. The rescue was difficult because many were trapped inside, VN Express reported, adding there were big waves in the area.
Authorities confirmed that while 21 individuals were successfully rescued, all 15 deceased passengers were recovered from the water. Those who sustained injuries during the accident were subsequently transported to local hospitals for treatment.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the tragedy, noting that the group had been participating in an annual meeting organized by a private mobile phone company. He confirmed via social media that personnel from the Indian Embassy were present at the site to provide assistance.
As of now, the exact cause of the capsizing remains under investigation by local authorities.
Twenty-one people were rescued, and all the dead were recovered, authorities said. The injured were taken to hospitals.
