Capsizing of speedboat in Vietnam kills 15 Indian tourists
A speedboat capsized off the coast of Phu Quoc, Vietnam, on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of 15 Indian tourists less than half a kilometer from shore, reports BritPanorama.
The speedboat, carrying 32 Indian tourists and four crew members, flipped shortly after departing from Hon May Rut Ngoai Island, authorities confirmed. Eyewitness Ashish Kumar described the incident, stating, “The boat had not even gone half a kilometer when it just tipped over. We screamed, ‘Help! Help!’”
As nearby boats rushed to assist, it became apparent that many passengers were trapped inside, according to witnesses. “But by then it was too late,” Kumar added, expressing concerns about the absence of emergency medical care upon the return of survivors to shore.
Reports indicated that some of the passengers were part of a corporate tour organized by a company that manufactures smartphones and other electronic devices. Kumar noted that two of his friends were among the deceased, with another in critical condition.
Video footage showed tumultuous waters and rescue teams tossing life buoys to those in distress. Rescuers on jet skis brought survivors back to the beach, where they received first aid. Ultimately, 21 individuals were rescued, and all deceased bodies were retrieved.
In the wake of the tragedy, Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung called for an investigation and urged authorities to ensure accountability for those responsible. He also emphasized a review of waterway and maritime safety regulations in the region.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his condolences through social media, asserting that the Indian Embassy was extending all necessary support. Many passengers are believed to have hailed from India’s southern Telangana and Tamil Nadu states, prompting local authorities to set up a control room to coordinate assistance and provide updates to families. The Tamil Nadu chief minister has requested that Indian officials expedite assistance to the victims’ families and facilitate the swift return of the deceased.
Phu Quoc, located in the Gulf of Thailand, ranks among Vietnam’s premier beach destinations, known for its striking white-sand beaches and clear waters, which attract millions of visitors annually.
