Tourist vessel overturned near Phu Quoc Island while returning from a sightseeing trip, triggering a massive rescue operation
A tourist speedboat carrying 32 Indian tourists and four Vietnamese crew members capsized near Phu Quoc Island in southern Vietnam on Saturday, leaving at least 15 Indians dead in one of the deadliest overseas accidents involving Indian tourists in recent years. Rescue teams managed to save 21 people, while authorities launched an investigation into the cause of the tragedy.
The accident occurred near Hon May Rut Ngoai Island, a popular tourist destination off Phu Quoc, when the vessel overturned just a few hundred metres from the shore.
Rescue operation launched after boat overturns
According to Vietnamese authorities, nearby boats, border guards, the coast guard and rescue teams rushed to the scene soon after the speedboat capsized.
Many passengers were reportedly trapped inside the overturned vessel, making rescue efforts difficult amid rough sea conditions. Survivors and the injured were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Indian Embassy monitoring the situation
The Indian Embassy in Vietnam confirmed the incident and said it is closely coordinating with Vietnamese authorities to assist the affected Indian nationals and gather more information about the victims.
Officials are also working to establish the identities of those killed and provide assistance to their families.
Probe ordered into the tragedy
Vietnamese authorities have launched an investigation to determine what caused the speedboat to capsize.
The vessel was returning from a sightseeing trip when the accident occurred near Phu Quoc, one of Vietnam’s most popular beach destinations among international tourists.
The incident has once again raised questions over maritime safety standards at major tourist destinations
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